Ayrshire Recording Services, who provide a lifeline 'talking newspaper' service to the visually impaired across the county, will be celebrating their 40th anniversary in December.
Through the years the group have provided recordings of local newspaper stories to help keep blind and visually impaired residents of Ayrshire up to date with the latest news.
Established in December 1983 by dedicated project manager Jim Bircham they stared out by sending cassette tapes of the news stories to subscribers.
With the huge advances in technology over the 40 years, they now provide subscribers with USB stick recordings of the latest stories.
This modernization has ensured that they continue to provide a lifeline for their listeners, offering accessible and up-to-date content.
Now the group of volunteers are set to celebrate their milestone anniversary in Kilmarnock's Park Hotel on December 2. The guests of honour for this special occasion will include Provost Jim Todd and members of the Kilmarnock Visually Impaired Social Group. Together with Jim Bircham, they were instrumental in establishing the talking newspaper's service.
Sadly, the group's inspirational founder Jim died last year.
Rikki Farquharson, the group's production manager, said: "Jim was affectionately known as "He is the Blind Club" by both members and listeners and left an indelible mark on the organization and the lives of those it serves.
"His passing in January of last year left a void that has been deeply felt by all who knew him. Jim's legacy lives on through the tireless efforts of the Ayrshire Recording Services team."
Now Rikki and his team of dedicated volunteers are now reaching out to local businesses and the community for support.
They are seeking sponsorship for their upcoming "Charity Fundraising Night," which will help fund essential equipment.
The funds raised will be used to purchase microphones for clear and crisp audio recording, speakers for new potential listeners who require them, as well as USB memory sticks and USB Velcro wallets to facilitate distribution.
Local businesses are invited to become key sponsors of the Charity Fundraising Night. Sponsorship will not only promote your brand but showcase your dedication to supporting a vital cause that has a profound impact on the lives of visually impaired individuals in our community.
Ayrshire Recording Services would also be honoured to sponsors at the event, which will inspire attendees and provide an excellent opportunity for networking while showing your support for this invaluable service.
You can still make a meaningful contribution by providing gifts for the raffle. These prizes will not only generate excitement but also additional funds to ensure that Ayrshire Recording Services can continue its essential work.
Rikki added: "As we approach the 40th anniversary of Ayrshire Recording Services, let us come together as a community to celebrate their remarkable journey and ensure that their vital work continues to thrive.
"Every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a difference in the lives of those who rely on this lifeline.
"Let us join hands in celebrating this remarkable milestone and supporting Ayrshire Recording Services in its mission to provide accessibility and companionship to our visually impaired community members. Together, we can make a difference that will be felt for generations to come."
For more information on sponsorship opportunities and how to get involved, please contact Rikki and the Ayrshire Recording Services team at studio@arsb.org.uk
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