Rankinston boys on quad bikes ride to the rescue

Jan 1 2010 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A GANG of boys on quad bikes have been labelled local heroes.

The lads, nicknamed the Quad Squad, rode to the rescue of residents in Rankinston.

Terrified drivers were hauled to safety during heavy snowfall by the makeshift response team.

Now villagers have paid thanks to the boys, who towed cars and ran errands to neighbouring villages for food.

Resident Joanne Middleton revealed: “The boys were absolutely superb.

“It wasn’t for them we’d have been totally stuck.

“The village was completely forgotten about during the bad weather and we were simply cut off.

“But the boys got on their bikes and nothing was too much trouble for them.

“They’re wee heroes up here.”

Rankinston was among the heaviest hit by snowfall which battered parts of East Ayrshire.

That left the Brae, the large hill entering the village, out of bounds for cars which got into trouble.

But members of the Quad Squad quickly leapt into action.

Another Rankinston resident added: “It’s great to see young guys doing something good for the community and everyone up here is so thankful to them.

“They even pulled the post office van up the road, which is vital for us, and they were willing to do anything we needed.”

Meanwhile, East Ayrshire Council insist they’ve done everything they can to keep roads clear despite the big freeze.

A spokesman said: “Since Friday, December 18, East Ayrshire has been gripped by a spell of extremely cold weather.

“Gritters have literally been working round the clock to keep our main roads and footways clear. However, the weatherhas proved to be very challenging.

“On the evening of Tuesday, December 23, the continuing severe weather brought a number of roads in the area to a stand-still.

“The heavy snow coupled with temperatures as low as -8 made driving conditions treacherous and gritters and snow ploughs continued working 24 hours in an attempt to keep our main routes clear.

“The council’s helpline – 0845 724 0000 – will be in operation throughout the New Year period and will provide support and assistance to residents as required.”