North Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson has shared her memories of a fantastic Marymass 2023.

The celebrations culminated on Saturday, August 26, with the crowning ceremony at Irvine Townhouse followed by a spectacular horse-drawn parade to Irvine Moor, with a focus on community and tradition.

The Provost, alongside the Captain of the Carters, Gordon Storrar, began the Marymass Saturday festivities at the well-attended traditional ceremony outside Irvine Townhouse where Queen Elect Rebecca Orr, from Greenwood Academy, was officially crowned.

Afterwards, the Provost said: "I am so delighted that the weather has been kind to us today and given us a glorious Marymass morning.

"Walking in the parade was wonderful – and brought the people of Irvine out to see the spectacle and make the best of what has been an action-packed series of community events during the week. I commend the organisers of the Marymass Festival – thank you for your incredible efforts.

"Marymass is a truly fantastic event because so many people, residents and visitors alike, come out to enjoy what is on offer.

"I would like to extend my special thanks to our French visitors from Voisins-le-Bretonneux who also joined our celebrations, and wish the best of luck to the Marymass Royal Party as they continue their Marymass duties – they really have done their friends, family, schools and hometown proud."

The Provost then invited the Carters and Marymass Queen and Marymass Marys’; Emily Muir, Holly Surgenor, Summer Henderson and Freya Fitzsimmons and the rest of the Royal Party alongside other council officials and community representatives to a special celebratory meal at the Provost Marquee at Irvine Moor.

The annual event dates back to 1372 and incorporates traditions mixed with modern-day influence.

Provost Dickson added: "I would like to also take this opportunity to thank the council's roads, Streetscene, communities and facilities management teams and other officers who have been working behind the scenes and on the ground to keep everything running smoothly.

"And finally, I would like to share my special thanks to our wonderful catering colleagues and K:A Leisure staff who provided a warm welcome to visitors at the Townhouse and at the reception. We appreciate you all so very much."

For more highlights see the official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/marymassfestival.

And if you want to share your own highlights with the organisers tag them with #marymassfestival23 to be included in the round-up.