Ayrshire Recording Services has been supporting residents who are blind or visually impaired for decades by recording and producing audio versions of local newspapers.

With the help of volunteers, the dedicated team offer audio scripts of local news, events, activities, sport, and even fun quizzes for any Ayrshire locals who are blind or visually impaired.

This year marks the charity’s 40th anniversary since the group launched in partnership with Kilmarnock Visually Impaired social group, formally known as The Blind Club.

The charity currently records the Cumnock Chronicle, Irvine Times and Kilmarnock Standard. They also have plans to record the Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald and Largs and Millport Weekly News in the near future.

READ MORE: Ayrshire hearing charity looking for support with new roof after heavy rainfall

With ambitions to expand the range of services on offer, Ayrshire Recording Services is seeking help from the wider community. Residents can help the club grow and reach a wider audience either through sponsorship or with a few hours of volunteering per week. The group are especially interested in recruiting new audio engineers to help produce what the readers record.

Rikki Farquharson, Production Manager and General Secretary at the charity said: “We are making a plea to local businesses and others who would be willing to sponsor our talking newspapers, or to assist with this project. With a suggested minimum donation of £20, we will be able to mention sponsors and advertise their business over four weeks and equivalent to 12 talking newspapers.

“The funds raised will contribute to replacing our studio roof, as it is leaking due to the heavy rain that we have had over the last several months.”

The team also want to remind residents that they run a social group, who meet every Monday from 1pm to 3pm at West Netherton Bowling Club to enjoy social day trips out or activities. It costs just £3 a week to join, or £15 for an annual membership. Any new members will be made very welcome by the friendly group.

For more information, and to find out how you can get involved, email studio@arsb.org.uk or call 01563 530880.