D-Day celebrations draw big crowds to Irvine harbourside

(Image: David Kerr)

The town’s Coastwatch group organised a fitting tribute to mark the Normandy landings on June 6 1944, which eventually would lead to the end of the Second World War 2.

(Image: David Kerr)

(Image: David Kerr)

Large crowds gathered at the harbour to enjoy entertainment, food and drink and, more poignantly, pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the conflict.

(Image: David Kerr)

(Image: David Kerr)

A grand parade left the Scottish Maritime Museum at 6.30pm heading to the beach before the beacon was lit just after 9pm by North Ayrshire's Provost Anthea Dickson.

(Image: David Kerr)

Bands and community groups joined in the anniversary celebration at the harbourside, including Irvine Community Council, the Boys Brigade and Sea Scouts.

(Image: David Kerr)

(Image: David Kerr)

There were plenty of dignitaries at the event too, including council representatives and Ayrshire's Lord Lieutenant Iona McDonald. The Marymass Royal Party were also there to join in the big event.

(Image: David Kerr)

There was also plenty of musical entertainment to enjoy with songs like White Cliffs of Dover and We’ll Meet Again being sung and the organisers ensured here was plenty of food available for all to enjoy. Stall owners reported a roaring trade on the night.

(Image: David Kerr)

(Image: David Kerr)

There were brilliant dancing displays to watch as well as classic cars and a fire engine on parade for the public to see.

(Image: David Kerr)

The landings on the beaches of Normandy were the first stage in the Allies' liberation of France and turned the tide of the Second World War firmly against the occupying forces of Nazi Germany.

(Image: David Kerr)