The opening night of Illumination harbour festival of light was a thrilling, dazzling success and showcased Irvine harbourside at its finest.
That was the message from North Ayrshire Council following Wednesday’s brilliant launch night.
The four-day event - organised by the Scottish Maritime Museum - kicked off with an eye-catching illumination Light Trail and some death-defying aerial acrobatic performances.
More events are scheduled until the climax on Saturday – a finale dinner at the Puffers Café where guest will be treated to top-class food, stunning views of the illumination lights before a closing fireworks display.
The Council is a proud supporter of the Festival and provided funding and resources for the event event which has already drawn in big crowds following its opening on St Andrew’s Day. The Council has also made a commitment to support the event next year.
The Scottish Maritime Museum and Council enjoy a close working relationship and are currently developing proposals – which would include a Maritime Mile – as part of their Ayrshire Growth Deal submissions. These proposals would see a range of exhibitions, cafes and other attractions developed in the area.
Councillor Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, said: “The Irvine Harbourside is a beautiful stretch with enormous potential.
“The Festival of Light has captured that potential and shown what can be achieved here. Developing the Harbourside is a priority for us and we are working with the Scottish Maritime Museum, along with other partners and investors, to try and realise the potential both at the Harbourside and Ardeer Peninsula.
“A huge congratulations to everyone involved for a brilliant opening night and we’re really looking forward to what promises to be a brilliant four days.”