The winner of a Chronicle competition to find our readers' favourite local cafe says customers are at the heart of the business's success.
We previously revealed that Gemmell's Garden Centre Coffee Shop, near Stair, had won the most votes from the readers in the competition which ran during April.
More than 20 businesses in the area were nominated to take part in the vote, with Gemmell's beating off some stiff competition from businesses in Cumnock, Auchinleck, Mauchline, Drongan and beyond.
READ NEXT: Winner of Cumnock Chronicle's 2024 'best local cafe' competition revealed
Jill McNellie, who works for the business's finance team, said "We are absolutely delighted with the win. It means a lot to us and it shows our hard work is paying off. We are a family-run business so there is more of a personal side to it.
"It is a great boost for the staff team as they have all been working so hard.
"We want to thank all the customers who voted for us and their continued support."
Our runner-up was Auchinleck's newest café, Maggie's, which opened last year under the ownership of Maggie Boyd in the Main Street premises formerly occupied by the Wee Bakers.
READ MORE: New Auchinleck café owner delighted to bring custom to the village
The shop, which opened in February 2023, sells hot and cold pies, filled rolls and breakfasts.
And owner Maggie Boyd revealed that she has plans for the business but credits her staff.
She said: "A huge thank for the continued support over the past year. It means a lot to me and my team.
"We have some exciting plans for our future, so we are extremely grateful to our customers who come day in and out to support us.
"I am looking for new suggestions for our menu so anyone with any ideas is more than welcome to give us a message!"
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