A Yew tree, generously donated by the British Longbow Society, was planted in Craigie Woods in Ayr, to mark the longstanding tradition of archery in South Ayrshire.

In June 2005 Convener of the Council's Economic and Tourism Development Committee, Councillor Robert Campbell hosted a reception for those taking part in the British Longbow Society Celtic meeting. The competition was held within the grounds of Oswald Hall and Culzean Country Park, with a special display taking place within Craigie Woods.

The competition, now in its thirteenth year, is a most prestigious archery event where archers compete for the Ailsa Trophy and Pretanni Trophy. An annual competition, one year the competition location is in Scotland and the next in Ireland.

As a way of saying thank you to the people of South Ayrshire for their hospitality British Longbow Society decided to donate a Yew tree to the Council for them to plant in a public place. The Yew tree was selected as it is evergreen, usually has a long life, and traditionally the wood is used to make longbows.

Councillor Robert Campbell, who officially planted the tree in Craigie Woods in Ayr said: "The Celtic competition, held in South Ayrshire earlier this year, gave people in South Ayrshire an opportunity to see longbow sport being played at international level.

"I was delighted to plant this young Yew tree, which should grow into a strong and beautiful tree surrounded by other established trees. I would like to thank the British Longbow Society for their very generous gift to the people of South Ayrshire."

Pictured at the official tree planting ceremony are (left to right) Tom McCulloch, Ground and Parks Foreman, Hugh McBrien and Laura McBrien of the British Longbow Society, Councillor Robert Campbell, Jane Moriarty and Captain Patrick Moriarty of the British Longbow Society and Eric Monson, Grounds and Parks Manager.

November 2005