by Ron Ireland | Jun 11, 2023
Ayrshire Coastal Path creator and Trail Manager Dr Jimmy Begg, has scooped a Special Recognition Award at this year’s South Ayrshire Volunteer Awards recognising his exceptional volunteering over an extended period of time.Jimmy was nominated on account of his exceptional endeavour and commitment in creating and maintaining the Ayrshire Coastal Path. He has been at the heart of the ACP, a jewel amongst the attractions of South Ayrshire, for twenty years. It is no exaggeration to say that without Jimmy the ACP would neither have been created nor maintained to its present-day exceptionally high standard.Last year marked Jimmy’s 80th birthday yet his drive and enthusiasm for “his baby” is undiminished. He is still to be found heading work parties carrying out the essential, tiring physical work in all weathers and at all times of year to maintain and improve the trail. With his cheerful and gently cajoling manner he encourages all the ACP volunteers to give of their best while enjoying the scenic beauty, fresh air, and exercise, all provided for free.The thousands of hours Jimmy has devoted to the Path would be a source of pride to anyone doing even a full-time paid job. His commitment has brought untold benefits to South Ayrshire including health (through exercise by both volunteers and path-users) and increased numbers of visitors with interests in nature, environment and history as well as walking. The ACP Guidebook (now in its 3rd edition) was penned by Jimmy and does much in promoting the many attractions of the region. Unselfishly, Jimmy donates all the proceeds from the book towards Path upkeep and improvement.Complementing the routine ACP...
