The town of Ayr is seeking a transatlantic twinning partnership with Providence, Rhode Island, after friendships were formed during Scotland's FIFA World Cup journey.
A group of community, business, and civic leaders from Ayr have united behind the proposal to make this official. The initiative builds on "the extraordinary welcome" received by thousands of Scotland supporters in Providence during the tournament.
The Providence Tartan Army, founded by Gregor Cowan, left a significant charitable legacy during the World Cup, including donations to Hasbro Children's Hospital and the Rhode Island Highlanders.
To drive the twinning initiative forward, a steering committee has been formed. This includes local business owners, political representatives, tourism and hospitality sector members, and community organisations.
The committee members are Jason Skimming, Gregor Cowan, Davie Smith, Siobhian Brown MSP, Claire Baird, Mike McGregor, Steven Muir, and Nick Morgan.
Their goal is to turn the friendships formed through football into a long-term relationship that benefits both communities on either side of the Atlantic.
They aim to boost tourism between Scotland and Rhode Island, create educational exchanges, encourage business collaboration in various sectors, and develop sporting links.
The proposal also includes plans for a "Providence–Ayr Friendship Week", celebrating music, food, heritage, sport, and charitable fundraising.
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One of the steering committee's long-term goals is to explore a direct transatlantic air connection between Glasgow Prestwick Airport and T. F. Green International Airport in Providence.
They believe a future seasonal route could strengthen tourism, attract investment, increase business opportunities, and improve connectivity between Scotland and Rhode Island. The partnership also aims to create opportunities for trade missions, investment forums, and business delegations, fostering economic growth.
Beyond economics, the initiative seeks to establish lasting charitable partnerships supporting children's charities, veterans, mental health organisations, and community projects. Jason Skimming, one of the initiative's founders, said: "What started as a football tournament became something much more meaningful.
"The people of Providence welcomed Scotland with incredible warmth and generosity, and together we created friendships that deserve to continue long after the World Cup.
"This proposal isn’t simply about twinning two places on a map; it’s about creating opportunities for our young people, our businesses, our cultural organisations, and our communities.
"We believe Ayr and Providence can build a partnership that delivers real benefits for generations to come."
The steering committee will now start discussions with the City of Providence, South Ayrshire Council, and other stakeholders to explore the next steps towards establishing this international partnership.
