Campaign to re-name Prestwick Airport

Apr 16 2010 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A CAMPAIGN to re-name Prestwick Airport has been launched on Facebook.

More than 1100 people have signed a petition on the social networking site demanding a change to the airport’s title.

And they want the name of legendary poet Rabbie Burns to front a new-look image.

The campaign group calls itself “Rename Glasgow Prestwick Airport to Robert Burns International.”

Burns enthusiast Colin Shearer, a campaign supporter, believes the group is building momentum.

He said: “Hundreds of people have signed up in the last few weeks and we hope the people in power will listen to us.

“I doubt those in charge at Prestwick Airport have any interest in Burns, but he has far more local relevance than the name Glasgow.

“Airports around the world are being named after political leaders and footballers – so why not name Prestwick after a world renowned name like Burns?”

Burns fans from as far away as Milwaukee, USA, have already pledged their support to the petition.

Colin, 33, added: “I really think this can happen if everyone in the community and abroad gets involved online and offline.

“It’s an embarrassment leaving and entering Prestwick as it is.

“It is just and right that Ayrshire and Scotland should rename its airport after its most famous son and reap the pride and financial rewards of the tourism and world recognition it would bring.

“Belfast has George Best and Liverpool has John Lennon – both will be forgotten long before Robert Burns.”

To sign the petition, visit www.gopetition.com/petitions/robert-burns-international-airport.html