KILWINNING’S Picnic in the Park will be back this year with a host of bands already signed up for the stage.

The event will return on Thursday, August 9 running from 11.30am to 4.30pm this year in McGavin Park, Kilwinning.

The event will remain focused on being a family event with the addition this year celebrating the year of young people.

Organiser Cllr Donald Reid said: “The event was first held last year and while much of the event is free to attend we do have inflatables and kids rides which we sell wrist bands for to help keep costs low for families. We distribute hundreds of free wristbands in advance via the Family Support Team and local Holiday Clubs to those who face a bleak holiday over the school holidays as part of Kilwinning locality grant assistance.

“There is a mix of local and emerging talent from the West of Scotland on the stage.

“We have done our best to accommodate everyone on the stage, even starting earlier and finishing later.

“It’s great to see as many acts keen to come to our event. With an evening sponsor we could consider running again from 6 to 9pm so maybe next year.

Timings for the big day are: Stage goes live with a rundown of the days activities. 11.40 Ewan McAuley 12.10 Chairman of Kilwinning Community Events Donald Reid welcomes the local MSYP and Segdoune Royal Party to say a few words. 12.15pm The guest of honour will then open the event. 12.30 Pammi Quinn 1pm Franklyn Acoustic 1.30pm Connor Fyfe Music 2pm Annastaisyar 2.30pm Cranberry Singers 3pm Sasha Kaloheris Music 3.30pm Kerr James Music 4pm Emma Sarginson to close Any group that would like to attend with an information stall or to demonstrate should contact donaldreid@live. co.uk or see Kilwinning Community Events facebook page for more information.

The partners in the event are Curra Scotland, the councils Family Learning Team and Kilwinning Community Events.