Final preparations are well under way for the Ardrossan Highland Games next weekend.

It will only be the second edition of the popular Three Towns event after it made its triumphant return in 2022 following two years off due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

But as ever, as much fun for all the family can be expected when the gates open at the Memorial Field on Sunday, June 11 at 8.30am.

The chieftain of this year's event will be Brenda Johnstone, whose appointment was confirmed at the beginning of May.

Brenda originally hails from Glasgow, but along with her husband Robert and three children have been residents of Ardrossan for over 45 years.

Brenda has been a volunteering stalwart in the local community with many different organisations and events over the years.

She is currently area chairperson of the Scottish Association of Flower Arranging Societies, and a board member of Cunninghame Housing Association.

Brenda said she was "thrilled and shocked to be asked" and is looking forward to the day.

And what exactly have punters got to look forward to?

As always, the Games will no doubt be heard from across the town with the usual pipe band and solo piping competitions to take place this year.

Other attractions will include Highland dancing competitions and the impressive 'heavy' events.

A craft fair will also be set up at the Memorial Field, while Owl Magic, Artie's Tartan Tales and the Drakes of Hazzard will be amongst those providing entertainment on the day.

Plenty stalls will also be dotted across the field - with trade stalls completely fully booked this year.

There will be a limited number of free car parking spaces available on the day too - just follow the signs.

Entry will cost £4 for adults, £2 for children and a family ticket (two adults and two kids) will cost £8.

And as the games continues its strong links with local young people, no fewer than 2,500 free tickets have also been given out across the Three Towns' primary schools for the event.

For more information as the day itself approaches, check out the Games' Facebook page - facebook.com/ardrossanhighlandgames.