Trailblazing footballer Rose Reilly joined dozens of others for the annual Reclaim the Night Walk in Irvine last Tuesday.

Led by pipers, Rose was joined by Provost Ian Clarkson, Chief Executive Craig Hatton, Councillors, members of the public and a range of partners who all turned up to show their support to women who have been the victims of violence.

The walk – from the Trinity steps to the Harbour Arts Centre (HAC) – is an integral part of the 16 Days of Action campaign.

Holding banners and candles, they marched in solidarity to raise awareness of the campaign which promotes an end to Violence Against Women and directly addresses men – so they understand the scale of the problem and become part of the solution.

Provost Clarkson said: “It was a cold evening but we were delighted by the turnout and the support of so many partners and groups.

“The whole purpose of the walk is to raise the profile of this issue and get people talking about it. We hope that the walk, and the whole 16 Days of Action campaign, will do that. We can all make a difference to end this type of behaviour.

“While the 16 Days Campaign won’t solve everything it shines a light on an issue that is hugely important.”

Rose Riley, the female football player who won a host of trophies and honours in both Scotland and Italy, took part in the walk before giving a brief speech at the HAC.

Throughout the 16 Days of Action, the Council’s Violence Against Women team, along with partners including Police Scotland, have been visiting locations, speaking to the public while asking them to sign the Pledge. This is a commitment to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

The 16 Days concludes on Tuesday, December 10.