News In Brief - Tuesday 7 April 2026
We hope you had an enjoyable Easter break. Thank you once again for tuning in to News in Brief with important updates and news highlights of all that is happening over the coming week.
Candidates confirmed for Scottish Parliamentary Election
The candidates have been confirmed for the Scottish Parliamentary Election, to be held on Thursday 7 May. Voters will choose their constituency MSPs in Cunninghame South and Cunninghame North, and they will also have a second vote that will help to determine the seven regional list MSPs in the West Scotland Region, which includes North Ayrshire. Read the update in the Election update news release.
Wednesday 8 April: Marvellous Moths drop-in session
Do you have kids that are curious about critters? Perhaps you want to learn a thing or two from our friendly Countryside Rangers? Well, why not come along to our upcoming Courtyard Encounters Marvellous Moths discovery session at Eglinton Country Park. See moths up-close and learn all about them between 10am until 11.30am. Drop-in session, weather permitting.
Also on Wednesday: Check out the new ‘Colours’ exhibition
The Arts and Culture team have unveiled a bold and vibrant art exhibition at the Main Galleries of the Harbour Arts Centre, our flagship arts and culture venue. Read the social media post for a sneak peek and opening times. Items on display are available for purchase and the exhibition will run until Friday 8 May.
Finally for Wednesday: Young Scotland programme deadline
Close of business Wednesday is the deadline to register team members for this year’s Young Scotland Programme. Don’t miss out on this exciting development opportunity. Full details via the Young Scotland programme news article.
Care Experienced Easter drawing competition
Our Corporate Parenting team and Residential Services are egg-cited to invite care experienced children and young people to take part in an Easter drawing competition. Full details are via the Easter drawing competition social media post. Entries close on Monday 20 April, and there are prizes to be won. Please help to spread the word! If you’ve missed it, you can also read the Corporate Parenting team’s latest Promise update on Latest News.
E-bike taster sessions
The Travel Smart team are excited to invite colleagues to their upcoming E‑Bike Taster Sessions. Get the schedule and find out the benefits via the latest Travel Smart news update.
Delicious dishes and treats at Café on 4
Head up to the Café on 4 this week if you’re working in Cunninghame House. The weekly menu and specials has been posted on Staff News.
Congratulations to everyone at Skelmorlie Primary school!
Staff and pupils at Skelmorlie Primary school have buried a time capsule as part of celebrations marking its 50th anniversary. Read more in the Skelmorlie celebration news article.
Easter holiday fun for all the family
Our Arts and Culture team, North Ayrshire Libraries and Countryside Rangers at Eglinton Country Park are hosting several free and ticketed events over the next two weeks.
- view the Eglinton Country Park events schedule here
- find out your nearest library events here
- purchase tickets for the Harbour Arts Centre via the HAC events round-up
Remember to use #LoveNorthAyrshire if you attend and post any pics as we are always on the lookout to spread the word and show action-pics on our social media channels.
Sign up for Employee Perks
Discover exclusive savings on the Employee Perks website! Whether you're hunting for holiday deals, planning a day out or want to make supermarket savings, there’s something for everyone. To log in or sign up to Employee Perks and access these fantastic discounts, visit the Staff Benefits webpage.
Share your stories ahead of Global Intergenerational Week
Each year, (between the 24-30 April) we shine a spotlight on powerful examples of intergenerational learning and community connection across our six localities. If you would like tell us about a community project or initiative you are working on that benefits all ages, please email: jenniferlaw@north-ayrshire.gov.uk to be included in our news coverage.
Save the date! Savvy about Scams roadshow…
A drop-in ‘Savvy About Scams’ roadshow event is being held at Irvine Library on Monday 13 April from 10am to 1pm. Members of the public and staff are invited to go along and find out more from: Trading Standards, Police Scotland, Citizens Advice Bureau, Home Energy Scotland, Ayrshire Independent Living Network and Money Smart. There’s also a Freestyle Art session for children from 10am to 12pm, and lunch/refreshments will be provided.
That's all! If you have news to share in News In Brief next week, share your story with us by midday on Friday by using the contact us button below. Have a great week everyone!
