THIS Friday’s big independence debate in Irvine is set to be standing room only after huge interest from locals.

Word about the event at the town’s Volunteer Rooms has spread quickly with social media sites Facebook and Twitter abuzz with discussion about the big debate.

It’s sure to be a thought provoking evening as the specially-invited panel will be debating the question “Is Scotland ready for independence?”.

Speaking on behalf of the Yes campaign will be former Scottish Socialist Party leader Tommy Sheridan and Fiona MacDonald from the PCS union who will square up against the pro-union team of local MP Brian Donohoe and GMB union political officer Richard Leonard.

The four speakers will put their cases for and against independence ahead of the referendum in September.

In addition, the audience in attendance will get their chance to have their say and pitch their questions to the panel which will be chaired by Fullarton Parish Church minister and Irvine Times columnist Neil Urquhart.

Irvine Beat FM will also be on hand to record the event which will be broadcast on Peter Lockhart’s Sunday Talk-In show on the same weekend.

The meeting is free to enter but the audience are advised to arrive early due to high demand.