South Ayrshire village makes its mark by becoming area's first Biosphere Community

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Ballantrae has become South Ayrshire’s first Biosphere Community. The historic village, located 12 miles from Girvan on the coast, was awarded the honour, making it the sixth to be designated within Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere.

Ballantrae’s Biosphere Community status was awarded due to its community-led organisations, unique natural environment and commitment to sustainability.

Residents turned out in numbers to take part in the Sense of Place workshop in November, pleading their case on what makes their community unique and why their village should become a Biosphere Community.Stories, initiatives and favourite places were shared at the workshop – covering areas including sustainability, education, conservation and a ‘love local’ ethos.Villagers highlighted the meeting of land and sea, where locals have fished and farmed for countless generations; birdlife including cormorants, plovers and gulls; tales of smugglers who conducted their trade from hidden caves, and sinister legends such as the Knockdolian Mermaid and cannibal Sawney Bean.The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now.Get all the local news in your area – plus features, football news and the latest on the coronavirus crisis – at your fingertips 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories while you can customise your page with the sections that matter to you.The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now on iOS and Android.And to promote local life and culture in modern times, residents highlighted forest walks among the Giant Redwoods at Glenapp Castle and Estate – preferably followed by afternoon tea – and the Kings Arms community pub and hub; an 18th century hostelry which is now owned and