TEAM North Ayrshire is celebrating after being recognised for its pioneering approach to supporting local businesses.

The team was awarded Best Public/ Private Working Initiative by APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) at a prestigious awards ceremony which took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Edinburgh on Thursday, September 13.

Since it was launched in 2013, Team North Ayrshire’s innovative approach to business development and economic growth is paying off across North Ayrshire.

They have proved that by collaborating together and offering bespoke packages of support and expertise for business they have developed more in-depth relationships with companies which has helped them to grow and become more competitive.

Councillor Alex Gallagher, Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “It’s a great achievement to have won this prestigious APSE Award. All the agencies have come together to deliver a co-ordinated, focused support to our businesses – and it’s working.”

Team North Ayrshire partners includes: North Ayrshire Council, SimpsInns, UPM Caledonian, Taste of Arran, Ayrshire Community Trust, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, Ayrshire College, Centre for Engineering, Education & Development (CEED), University of the West of Scotland, Department of Work and Pensions, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands & Islands, Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland.

Private Sector Member and Chair of Team North Ayrshire, Malcolm Simpson, Owner of SimpsInns, said: “We are delighted to have won.”