The owner of a much-loved Ayr music shop admits he was "shocked" after his store was named as the best in Scotland. 

Ayr Guitar, on the town's Alloway Street, was named Music Shop of the Year at the Scottish Independent Retail Awards...but owner Simon McCrindle told the Advertiser that at first he thought he was being scammed.

Simon opened the doors of the shop back in 2011, and believes that Ayr Guitar is the last major music store in the region. 

He says he is extremely proud of the shop's success over the past 13 years. 

Simon said: "We were shocked to win to be honest. There are a lot of good music shops around the country. 

"I had to double check with my staff because I honestly thought it was a scam at first when I read the email.

"It's a difficult environment to trade in, and we are one of the last standing as far as music shops go.

"I'm very proud and it's a wonderful achievement, for myself, my staff and for the town of Ayr too."

Simon, whose family hail from Ayrshire originally, believes it's his store's personal service that sets it apart from the rest. 

He explained: "I’ve got the best music shop staff in Scotland. We’re a family store with a very relaxed atmosphere.

"Every instrument in here is hand-selected, and we try and keep our prices as competitive as possible up against the internet.

"People are loath to buy instruments on the internet. So many people get their fingers burned. If you come in here, you can see things closer, and even have a shot.

"Our furthest customer came from Seattle to buy a specific guitar, and he took three days to make his mind up so he could have a wee holiday as well."

Simon has expressed his pride in the town, and has thanked his loyal customers for all their support over the years. 

He added: "It’s word of mouth, and reputation, that keeps you in the high street. 

"I think people miss going to physical stores, especially a specialist and personal one like ours.

"There’s some big boys that have fallen by the wayside. A lot of big places have lost their music shops.

"We know these people and know the pressures, and the award hopefully shows the good work that we do here.

"I am so passionate about Ayr. If a music store closes, it’s like the heartbeat of the town stops.

"We've got a great community here and hopefully this award can bring a bit of a boost to the town."