A THREE Towns pet store has been named the best new business in Ayrshire.

Animal Zone, in Dockhead Street, launched in 2022 and owner Shirley Aitken was stunned to find out she'd been nominated for a Scottish Business Award by customers.

Now, she's looking forward to the national final later this year, where her company could be named the best new business in the whole of Scotland in November.

Shirley said: "It has been quite overwhelming to be honest. I had no idea about the awards until a customer told me she'd nominated me.

"Now I'm hoping  to get all my customers behind me to vote again in the Scottish finals."

(Image: Animal Zone)

Before opening Animal Zone, Shirley worked as operations manager for a major shopping centre in Glasgow. And earlier, she worked for Harvey Nicholls, where she spent two years in Istanbul launching a new store.

But she's more than happy to be working in Saltcoats and praised the town's community for all their support.

She said: "Given this is my first business it has been very exciting to know that the local community care so much.

"I am thoroughly enjoying the change of pace from my previous jobs - and it is less stressful. I love the whole community feeling here. You get to know the people, their lives and their stories."

Shirley added: "I am always planning improvements to the business, so this month I am looking to expand some services. I am trying to get some exclusive new brands in that aren't well known in the Three Towns, including pet munchies and toys that I think will do really well.

"It does feel good to bring these awards back to the Three Towns and I feel it would be equally as nice to be able to let the local community know that there is some positive news in terms of small businesses doing well - especially in the current climate where some businesses struggle or even closing."

Congratulations to Shirley on her win - and here's hoping she brings another trophy back to Saltcoats after the national finals.