Marymass 2023 kicks off as opening ceremony is held

The famous Irvine festival kicked off last night, Thursday August 17, with the opening ceremony held outside, and then inside, the Townhouse.

There was plenty for locals to enjoy with activites beginning from 8pm at the first event of Marymass.

There were also a few bits of business which needed to be taken care of before the festival could be officially opened.

As pipers lead the Carters into the Townhouse from outside, shortly before 10pm, it was time for this year's Marymass Captain to be announced.

A vote took place yesterday between last year's captain Gordon Storrar and former jockey Gregor Smith to see who would take the role this year.

And it was Gordon who was selected to take the reins for a second year in a row.

Then, it was time for this year's royal party to be sashed ahead of the festival commencing.

Marymass Queen Rebecca Orr, along with her Marys Emily Muir, Hollie Surgenor, Summer Henderson and Freya Fitzsimmons, were all welcomed into their roles.

They had the chance to mingle with some former royals as they look forward to being part of the festival.

They, along with Gordon and North Ayrshire Council Provost Anthea Dickson, then headed back outside to ensure this year's Marymass started with a bang.

Next on the event calendar is the Fourth Port Parade, which begins tomorrow (Saturday August 19) at 11am - before the Marymass Fireworks at 9.45pm tomorrow evening.

For full details of everything that's happening at this year's festival, including dates, times and venues, see the official festival website at marymass.com.