This week, we take a look back at the big Irvine and Kilwinning stories from August 2009.

Who can you spot in these Irvine Times photos from 15 years ago?

(Image: Newsquest)

Work began on a £37m demolition project to regenerate the Vineburgh area of Irvine in August 2009. The six-year scheme would see the 306 low-demand four-in-a-block and flatted properties knocked down and replaced with the same number of modern, well-designed homes. Council dignitaries are pictured at the first day of the demolition work.

(Image: Newsquest)

An Irvine artist was thrilling the art world in 2009 - with a stunning new painting of late pop icon Michael Jackson. Graham McKean pictured the recently deceased megastar in his successful ‘Thriller’ period, surrounded by demons in a creepy kirkyard.

(Image: Newsquest)

Girls from primary schools in the Irvine area enjoyed the Y-Dance demonstration in the Vineburgh Community Centre in August 2009.

(Image: Newsquest)

Kilwinning Rotary President John Bennett is pictured presenting young golfer Connie Jaffery with a cheque for £100 to help her represent the British golf team in the US in August 2009. Pictured are, left, Connie’s dad David, John Bennett, Connie, and Connie’s mum Teresa Jaffrey.

(Image: Newsquest)

Irvine Meadow’s planned move from their historic home in Vineburgh looked close to collapse after fans gave a clear thumbs down to the proposals. And the move could scupper plans by the club’s sponsor, Alexander Morton Homes, to build almost 40 homes at the Meadow Park site. Fans and local residents are pictured at the public meeting in August 2009.

(Image: Newsquest)

Irvine’s Skinners Trade made sure there was plenty of fun to be had as they raised funds for charity at a special Nintendo Wii night in August 2009.