Irvine's Marymass royal party paid a visit to the council's HQ ahead of the big Saturday celebrations this week.

North Ayrshire Council Provost, Councillor Anthea Dickson welcomed the 2022 Queen Elect, Kendyl Woods (Irvine Royal Academy) and her Marymass Marys – Lilly Watkins and Lucie Gibson (Greenwood Academy) and Skye Davey and Chloe Robertson (St Matthew's Academy) – to the council’s Members’ Lounge for a chance to share their excitement ahead of the main event.

North Ayrshire Young Person’s Champion, Councillor Chloe Robertson also welcomed the royal party and shared her wisdom and fond memories of her time as Marymass Mary in 2015.

Provost Dickson said: “Marymass is a fantastic reason to come and visit Irvine and experience the joy of one of our most-loved celebrations, which dates back centuries.

“It has been fantastic to meet with Kendyl, and her royal party to learn more about their royal duties, and especially meaningful to be able, as women in the public eye, to mentor the younger women in such highly regarded roles.

“Returning to Irvine for the first time since after a long two years, I am thrilled that we can all take the time to come together this weekend and enjoy this unique celebration.

“Marymass 2022 is such a fantastic opportunity for us all to unite once again and pay homage to Irvine’s unique and rich cultural heritage.

Provost Dickson added: “On behalf of North Ayrshire Council, I would like to wish everyone a safe and memorable Marymass this year and extend a huge thanks to the organisers and many local people and community groups responsible for making this year’s festival a Marymass to remember.”

Councillor Chloe Robertson said: “I am thrilled for the Queen Elect and her Marys and wish them the best of luck for the days ahead.

“The festival is a fantastic way for young people to get involved and participate in local culture and heritage. I hope that Kendyl and her Marys will be as inspired as I was when they look back on their contribution to Marymass this year.

“Being nominated as a Marymass Mary in 2015 really helped me to gain my confidence and feel more comfortable in the spotlight when attending public events and being a Mary was also one of the aspects that really ignited my desire to be a councillor. The community spirit Marymass brings to the town and our communities truly is incredible and taking part in Marymass is such a hugely beneficial and memorable opportunity for all involved.

“I’m looking forward to the weekend. Marymass is going to be better than ever especially with the addition of this year’s free family fun zone with lots of activities for all ages including face painting, arts and crafts, a climbing wall, beat the goalie and more… I have no doubt the weekend is going to be a great one and I would encourage everyone in North Ayrshire and beyond to come along to Marymass 2022 and be part of the action. Hope to see you there!”

For more information and details of the Festival’s programme of events, follow the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/marymassfestival