A four-day continental food market is among some of the changes announced for Marymass this year.

The Global Village Market, which will be held at the Bridgegate from Thursday, August 15 and Sunday, August 18, was announced by the Marymass Festival Committee tonight (May 9).

This will be run by the operators of the Glasgow Christmas Markets.

Irvine Neighbourhood Youth Forum will also hold a Colour Dash at Irvine Moor on Sunday, August 18, with start times and entry information to be announced in due course.

A free youth village will also keep youngsters entertained at the Moor this year - which will include a silent disco and mocktail bar.

The traditional Low Green Gala Day, Shop Window Competition and Marymass Gardening Competition will also be reintroduced this year, with more yet to be announced.

Captain of Irvine Carters Society Danny Kerr said: “I am pleased to announce for this year the Marymass continental market, it will take place at the Bridgegate.

"If it becomes a success it will become a permanent feature of Marymass." 

Provost Ian Clarkson said: "Every year everyone says this will be the best Marymass ever, but having some inside information, this is going to be the best ever.

"The amount of entertainment, the quality of the entertainment, it's going to be epic.

"I keep saying this is going to be an epic year as Kilmarnock and Ayr I feel are so run down and Irvine is looking absolutely brilliant." 

This is after it was revealed last week the Marymass Queen and Marys will now be chosen from everywhere in Irvine

Traditionally only girls living in the KA12 area would be eligible to become a member of the Royal Party.

Organisers haven't yet announced any changes to the annual Greasy Pole competition - though the Captain of the Carters told the Times the pole might be getting bigger.

For more information visit the new Marymass website here.