Marymass organisers say plans are underway to bring back Irvine's ancient festival after celebrations had to be cancelled for the first time since WWII due to Covid.

It's hoped the parades, greasy pole and crowning ceremony will return after two years – pandemic restrictions providing – after events including the Marymass derby made a welcome return last year alongside virtual celebrations.

Organiser Andy Tremble confirmed the festival committee have met to discuss plans for Marymass 2022.

He told the Times that the Marymass committee are hopeful, adding "but we were hopeful last year".

He said: "We've had meetings in September, October, then February. It's up to the council, there's been no meetings with NAC representatives yet.

"We're thinking we will. There's to be an announcement this week from the government about relaxing restrictions. We are hopeful, but we were hopeful last year.

"Generally by this time of the year we would have 50 per cent of infrastructure booked, this year we haven't got that yet.

"We have done it in the past before at short notice so I reckon we can do it again."