Irvine's oldest pub has taken a step closer to re-opening after a fresh development in its makeover process.

Those in and around Irvine may have noticed recently that The Ship Inn has some new signs on display.

The fresh artwork, which displays the more well known local name 'The Ship', was completed last week.

And if social media rumours "from the horse's mouth" are to be believed, punters could be returning to the historic venue as soon as August.

Irvine Times: The new signage includes only the well known local name 'The Ship'. Picture Credit: Jim StewartThe new signage includes only the well known local name 'The Ship'. Picture Credit: Jim Stewart

It's another step towards re-opening after the Times reported in December 2021 how Aspire Windows and Home Improvements posted a teaser of the boozer's new windows which were fitted just before Christmas.

The popular pub had been listed for sale several times over the past five years.

However, the Ship Inn hasn't been listed for sale since August 2021 - though the identity of the owner remains a mystery.

Irvine’s oldest pub has remained closed since the death of one of its owners, Jamie Murray, in July 2020.

The pub dates back to 1567 when it was a Customs House, before becoming a licensed hostelry in 1754.