THE number of people living in Cumnock and the Doon Valley has dropped by one in four in the last 40 years - and by more than one in three since the early sixties.

And shock figures reported to East Ayrshire Council earlier this year predict that that figure will drop by a further 7 per cent by 2028.

Following this council report, the Chronicle decided to run a series of features looking at the challenges facing the area, the reasons for its struggles up till now and, importantly, the efforts being made, in public and behind the scenes, to make it a success story once again.

Over the course of a number of weeks, we spoke to residents, business owners, school pupils, politicians, community groups and others to build up a picture of our communities, the work that’s being done to make them more attractive to young people and families in the future, and what Cumnock and the Doon Valley still has to offer, and will offer in the future.

Take a look at our rundown of the stories we covered through the series.

Week one

Population stats lay bare the stark challenge facing Cumnock in the years to come

To kick off the series, we took a deeper look at how the area's population has dropped over the past few decades. Data showed that East Ayrshire's ‘southern locality’ population is expected to drop by an average of seven per cent by 2028. What is causing this drop?

Sir Tom Hunter says he sees a bright future for New Cumnock after years of decline

Former Cumnock Academy pupil and New Cumnock businessman Tom Hunter spoke to us about how he sees a positive future for the area, with investment required.

Week two

Green energy is key to our better future, says SNP councillor and former miner

Former miner and current local councillor, Jim McMahon looked back on life during the strikes, and the long-term impact that pit closures had on the area.

Government funding boost in bid to turn around Cumnock area's population decline

Shortly after the series launched, the Scottish Government announced a funding boost for areas suffering population declines. £60,000 will be invested to try and improve life in the area.

Week three

Should I stay or should I go? Academy pupils share their future plans

Pupils from the Robert Burns Academy told us about what their plans are for when they leave school, as they looked at what might encourage them to stay, and what is driving them to move away.

Transport, jobs and tourism key to turning round decline, says Mauchline farmer

Bryce Cunningham of Mossgiel Organic Farm backed calls to try and improve transport links between the area and the larger towns and cities.

 Week four

'Smart investment' is key to tackling population challenge, says council chief

Council boss, Eddie Fraser said a reduction in resources is making it hard to provide support, but insisted that "smart investment" can help to improve the area.

'Cumnock needs a facelift': Leading businessman issues plea to spruce up town

Leading local businessman Stewart Birrell has helped run and operate Donsport for the past 42 years. He is concerned that Cumnock has been allowed to run down in recent times, with vandalised or fire-damaged buildings left lying empty.

Week five

Talbot stalwart says a prosperous Auchinleck makes for a successful club

Being one of the biggest lower league clubs in the country can benefit the area, according to Talbot's match secretary. Henry Dumigan has always been determined to showcase all the good things Auchinleck has to offer.

Brass band strikes right note as it flies Dalmellington's flag at the highest level

Just like in Auchinleck, the Dalmellington Band is flying the flag for the Doon Valley. Having been founded in 1864, Dalmellington’s award-winning brass band is still going strong 160 years later, and has long been recognised as one of the best in Scotland.

Week six

National park would be a huge boost for Doon Valley economy, says estate owner

A section of the area has been earmarked for a new national park in Scotland, and the owner of a Dalmellington estate believes this would draw hundreds of people towards the area.

Cumnock business legend: 'I'd never want to be be anywhere but Cumnock'

Marion Gilliland- one of the most well-known faces in Cumnock- said she would never think of trading anywhere else. Having been part of the town's business scene since 1987, Marion says being adaptable to people's needs has been one of the keys to success over the years.

Week seven

Devastating impact of coal mining's demise 'still being felt in East Ayrshire today'

The devastating economic impact of the demise of the East Ayrshire coal mining industry is still being felt today, according to the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT). CRT is running a programme training and work experience to young people in former mining areas to boost future opportunities.

'It's a great place to live': Locals have their say on area's population decline

People in Cumnock and the surrounding areas spoke to us about what they like and dislike about the area. Some feedback included a need for more leisure facilities, and improved transport links.

Is there anything you think we missed from out series that you think should be covered? Let us know...