NORTH Ayrshire’s chief executive will officially retire on Hallowe’en after council bosses hold a special going away party for her this week.

Elma Murray will leave the local authority on Wednesday, October 31 with current Executive Director for Place Craig Hatton taking over.

And this Friday, council chiefs and invited guests will be attending a special formal event for her in Irvine’s Townhouse, after Ms Murray’s retirement was announced in August.

Ms Murray said: “My time with North Ayrshire Council has been an amazing journey. It’s being a huge privilege to serve with such talented and committed people and dedicated communities.”