A look back at the Chronicle's photos and stories from 2009

Can you spot any familiar faces in these pictures from 20 years ago?

Pupils at Catrine Primary celebrated Chinese New Year in 2009. The P3/4 class got to dress up in traditional silk clothes, try some Chinese cuisine, and play some instruments. They even got to wear masks based on the Chinese Zodiac.

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Doon Academy’s BBC School News reporters were delighted that famous author Cathy Cassidy visited the school to be interviewed. Ms Cassidy spoke to the reporters about her books and how she creates her characters and storylines. She also signed books and autographs for the pupils.

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Netherthird Primary pupils got their hands dirty in March 2009 – when East Ayrshire Park Rangers paid a visit  to talk to the pupils about things they could do in the school’s garden.

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Greenmill Primary School and Nursery class kids were likely to be the fittest in the town in 2009. After a week of health-related activities – including lessons on road safety - everyone was benefitting.

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Catrine canine Yeddi won a top award at Crufts in March 2009 - just months after vets thought she was going to die. The Samoyed dog came away with the best-of-breed award in front of 160,000 people packed into Birmingham’s NEC Arena. Owner Caroline Grief, from Gordon Street, said: “She had an under-active thyroid. Last September she had to go on the vet’s table and her heart stopped. But she’s a fighter and came back through and to win her against so many other good dogs is truly remarkable.”

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School dinners at Auchinleck Primary would never be the same again - thanks to talented pupils at the neighbouring Academy. The primary school’s dining room got a lovely new mural in March, 2009 thanks to the efforts of S2 Art pupils, who are pictured above.