THIS week, we take a look at the Chronicle's top stories and photos from December 2004.

And there was plenty going on in Cumnock and Doon Valley 20 years ago, as these pics show.

(Image: Newsquest) Senior pupils at Auchinleck Academy got down to some serious planting in late 2004. Seven sixth year pupils spent two hours planting 30 hazel trees, which were donated to the school by the Woodlands Trust represented by Bruce Davidson, left.

(Image: Newsquest) Children from each class and nursery children at Netherthird sent off more than 60 parcels for the Shoebox Appeal in 2004. The parcels would be sent to provide some relief to war-torn countries at Christmas.

(Image: Newsquest) Shona Laird, 26, whose family owned Sunnyside Farm just outside Cumnock, took the 2024 Scottish National Winter Fayre by storm with her prizewinning heifer, Full Throttle.

(Image: Newsquest) Meet the oldest pupils in town! Staff at Doon Academy got all nostalgic in 2004 as they dressed as schoolkids to raise funds for Children in Need in 2004.

(Image: Newsquest) Steven Taylor, left, became the latest addition to Cumnock Rugby Club, joining as youth development officer. He is pictured with Doreen Findlay of sponsors William Findlay Ltd, and Cumnock RFC Youth Section President Stewart Bennett.

(Image: Newsquest) Tiny tots from Greenmill Nursery class put on a show in 2004 - and raised a tidy £98.80 for Children in Need.