A RESTORED steam fire engine from the late 1800s will be one of several attractions at the Memories, Machines and Music event being held at Irvine’s Maritime Museum this Saturday, May 14.

The day-long trip through time is being held as part of the Scotland-wide Festival of Museums celebrations led by Museums Galleries Scotland.

Taking place at the Harbourside museum from 10am-5pm, there will be plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages.

Outside the vast glass-roofed Linthouse, visitors will find a Vintage Vehicle Village with a fleet of striking vehicles and engines from yesteryear. In addition to the steam fire engine, which will be pumping water from the museum pond, there will be a giant airport fire appliance, a steam traction engine as once used by showmen in the early 20th century and various vintage military vehicles.

Visitors to the Museum’s 1920s shipyard worker’s flat on the Harbourside will see it literally come to life as a stage with theatrical performances throughout the day.

Back inside the Linthouse, visitors will find a display of detailed period costume from Ayrshire Museum of Country Life.

There will also be craft activities for visitors of all ages and delicious tea and cakes served on vintage crockery.

As well as a great day out for all the family, Memories, Machines and Music will also be of interest to those with family or friends living with dementia. Alzheimers Scotland will be there to offer advice and support. The museum will also create a Reminiscence Wall to capture the memories of those visiting as part of ongoing work to capture the oral history of maritime and local community life.

Claire Munro, Learning and Access Officer at the Scottish Maritime Museum said:“It’s been wonderful to bring so many local organisations together to create an event where everyone can journey into the last century, go down memory lane for some and, for others, really experience what life was like decades ago. It’s going to be a great celebration and a lot of fun for everyone.”

Entry to Memories, Machines and Music is free for up to three children with every adult admission. There is a special adult admission of £5 for the day with entry to the full Museum included.

Advance tickets are available from the Scottish Maritime Museum on Harbour Road or online at Eventbrite www.eventbrite.com/e/memories-machines-and-music-tickets.

Tickets will also be available on the day and parking is free.