Prestwick forces awarded freedom

HMS Gannet said it was proud to receive the honour

The men and women who serve at HMS Gannet and RAF Prestwick have been awarded the freedom of South Ayrshire.

A ceremony was taking place in Ayr to mark the honour, including a flypast and a parade.

Previous recipients of the freedom of Ayr include philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, Sir Winston Churchill and the Royal Highland Fusiliers.

HMS Gannet's commanding officer, Lt Cdr Bryan Nicholas, said there was "great pride" in receiving the honour.

"We very much feel part of the Ayrshire community and to achieve this official recognition is a great honour for us all," she said.

The role these committed men and women play cannot be underestimated Provost Winifred Sloan In Pictures: HMS Gannet

Wing Cdr Richard Connelly, station commander of RAF Prestwick, added: "We are incredibly grateful to South Ayrshire Council for the award of the freedom as it represents recognition and appreciation of the job we do."

Provost Winifred Sloan said it was exactly 50 years since the Royal Highland Fusiliers were given the freedom of Ayr.

"I know how proud the HMS Gannet and RAF Prestwick personnel are of their local connections and many of them have chosen to make their homes here", she said.

"Many more make direct contributions to the community through valuable voluntary, youth and charitable work.

"The role these committed men and women play cannot be underestimated and I am delighted the council has agreed to award them the freedom of South Ayrshire."