A two-day festival giving North Ayrshire’s young people a chance to let their hair down and have some fun took place last week at Kelburn Castle.

Returning for the first time since before the pandemic, the much-anticipated Youth Festival welcomed more than 160 youngsters aged 12-16 as they camped out under the stars, listened to live music and enjoyed other activities over Tuesday and Wednesday, August 2 and 3.

The free event was organised by the council’s youth services team who were also joined by a host of other partners including Police Scotland, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Coastwatch, North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership and the Drug and Alcohol Partnership.

Kicking off on Tuesday, the youngsters took part in an initial series of ice-breaker challenges to get to know one another and settle in. Then from there, the non-stop fun included a colour run, spooky walk, performances from local musicians and circus performers, ‘rave cave’, bush tucker trails, smoothie bar, bucking bronco, giant assault course – to name only a few.

NAC councillor and young person’s champion, Chloe Roberston, said: “We are delighted to have welcomed back North Ayrshire’s young people to Youth Fest after a long two-year hiatus.

“The event wasn’t just about having fun. Each day the youngsters were also invited to take part in workshops themed on key issues affecting their age group such as mental health, wellbeing and safety and other inspiring information sessions on climate change and green STEM employability.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in making this year’s YouthFest a fantastic success. I’ve no doubt that the young people who attended will remember this unique experience for many summers to come.”

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