Kilwinning’s Picnic in the Park has been hailed a huge success for the town.

The inaugural event took place in McGavin Park last Thursday and more than 7,000 people came along to enjoy the experience, bringing their picnic.

While the sun did not quite shine all day, the rain stayed away and a great time was had by all.

The event was a joint venture by Kilwinning Community Events, the group responsible for Kilwinning Fireworks, along with North Ayrshire Council’s Family Learning Team and Louise McCulloch, Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland.

There was plenty for families to do with kids taking advantage of the unlimited ride wristbands to enjoy a giant slide, Outer Limits ride, a climbing wall and lots of inflatables. Kilmarnock Football Club, Kilwinning Rangers and Kilwinning Community Sports Club all offered taster sessions and goal practice.

There was face painting, glitter art, balloons, hook-a-duck, vintage fire engine, and KA Leisure Activator Unit. PC Sally Young came along with a police car and the kids loved playing with the siren. North Ayrshire Youth Services and LGBT group were on hand to entertain families.

Community groups who set up stalls included Onyerbike, Girl guides, Kilwinning Heritage, Kilwinning Community Council, Kilwinning Retirement Club, Kilwinning Bowling Club, Kilwinning Academy Parent Council, Promoting Kilwinning, Bridge Church and Bridgend Gospel Hall. There was also plenty of food on offer with sandwiches, fruits and cakes donated to be given away free. Café Solace were among those involved.

Following the official opening by the Segdoune Royals, there was plenty of entertainment in the form of Caitlin Carruthers, Craig Scott, Ewan McAuley and Stereo Blond. This was a family day with something for everyone and families could enjoy being together.

Lead event organiser Donald Reid said: “This was the first Picnic in the Park and we are so grateful to all the people who came along and made it an exceptional event. The weather was kind to us and we were able to go ahead in McGavin Park.

“It was great to see it being used to its full potential, with families sitting on the grass, enjoying their picnic, while listening to the excellent entertainment. We did not expect so many people to turn up and the fact they did was fantastic and showsKilwinning welcomes such an event.”