MAUCHLINE Burns Clubs are celebrating a multi-million pound funding boost to repair local historic properties.

After years of hard work the Club was thrilled secure almost two and a half million pounds for their projects from Historic Environment Scotland and East Ayrshire Council.

The preliminary work headed by members Drew Baird, Ian Lyell and his son Gavin, involved shop frontage measuring, identifying owners and consultations with them, along with identifying sections needing repair with many of the properties dating to the 18th century, all with a strong Burns connection, and 19th century heritage sandstone buildings, the challenge was a large one.

The final submission was recognised as highly professional by the Council who agreed across all parties to sponsor the bid.

To further the next stage a Steering Group of local volunteers has been set up.

Members of the group said they were delighted: “After almost two years hard work, and a wait of eight months the Club was delighted to learn its bid for funding for work on Mauchline’s conservation area, had been successful.

“At the end of the five years, Mauchline’s conservation area should be something to be proud of.”