Girvan

Many thanks to Dewars Coachworks for facilitating this camera's location and to The Ayrshire Rivers Trust for capitally funding its installation and to the Carrick Angling Club for their help in arranging its installation. The origin of the River Girvan can be traced back to Loch Girvan Eye, a high-altitude body of water nestled in the Galloway Hills, located a mere half mile away from the source of the River Stinchar. The Water of Girvan meanders through several notable lochs, including Lochs Cornish, Skelloch, and Bradan, the latter being a significant reservoir supplying water to Ayrshire. From there, the river takes a sweeping northern course, passing through Straiton and Kirkmichael, before veering southwest via Crosshill and Dailly, ultimately reaching its destination at Girvan Harbour where it meets the sea.The upper valley of the Girvan River is characterized by dense woodland, while the middle and lower sections traverse predominantly agricultural land dedicated to cattle and sheep farming. As a typical spate river, the Girvan relies heavily on natural surges of water, with only a minimal compensatory flow originating from Loch Bradan. Throughout the summer season, controlled releases of freshets are conducted from the dam to maintain a consistent water flow. The forested terrain in the river's headwaters facilitates rapid runoff of rainfall, often resulting in sudden flash floods.Girvan, originally established as a fishing port, attained the status of a municipal burgh by charter in 1668. The advent of railways, notably the Maybole and Girvan Railway in the late 1850s, played a pivotal role in transforming Girvan into a sought-after seaside resort. Its picturesque beaches and cliffs attracted holidaymakers from 1855 to 1941, including the Gray family, led by Robert and Elizabeth Gray and their children, particularly Alice and Edith Gray. Notably, Elizabeth and Alice spearheaded the scientific organization and collection of fossils, contributing to various museums, including the esteemed Natural History Museum.Just north of the town lies the Grangestone Industrial Estate, home to a William Grant & Sons distillery established in 1964. Furthermore, the area houses a Nestlé factory responsible for manufacturing chocolate, which is then transported to York for its inclusion in beloved confectioneries such as Kit Kat and Yorkie bars.