Scotland’s Year of Young People (YoYP) was brought to life in North Ayrshire recently at a civic reception aimed at shining the spotlight on young people’s great achievements.

Provost Ian Clarkson teamed up with North Ayrshire’s YoYP Ambassadors to put on a celebratory event marking the national and international successes of local youngsters.

Over 100 young people from the world of sport and music were invited along to join in the celebrations which took place on Thursday, May 31 at Saltcoats Town Hall.

The evening opened with a performance from North Ayrshire’s highly acclaimed Schools’ Senior Concert Band, who secured a Gold award at the National Concert Band Festival earlier this year.

This gave way to a street dance show by pupils from Whitehirst Park and Caledonia primary schools.

Young people from various groups and bands were then invited on stage to collect certificates – one from the council, and the other, an official YoYP certificate issued on behalf of the First Minister of Scotland by North Ayrshire’s Youth Champion, Councillor Shaun Macaulay.

Those receiving certificates on the night included groups such as North Ayrshire Athletic Club’s Under 12 SuperTeam winners and Under 11 National Indoor League Champions as well as North Ayrshire Schools’ Senior and Junior Concert Bands.

Individual sporting athletes such as Commonwealth Games 2018 Gymnastic Bronze Medalist, David Weir, were also celebrated on the night.

The Provost also took the opportunity to thank the YoYP Ambassadors.

He said: “With so many exceptionally talented young people here in North Ayrshire, it’s only right that we take time to recognise and celebrate their achievements – especially given that this year is a time for them.

“I’d like to once again congratulate our young people on their success and also thank our YoYP Ambassadors for their great support putting on such an outstanding event.”

Nicole Tait and Emily Nix, YoYP Ambassadors, were MCs on the night and said: “We are proud to have played a part in such an important and celebratory evening. It was a clear demonstration of just how talented young people in North Ayrshire are.”