Concerns have been raised about the muddy state of the grassy esplanade on Largs seafront following recent festivals.
It is a busy area during the Viking festival hosting the food and craft fayre, as well as the Viking Village, but the rainy weather which we have experienced has been blamed for the current situation.
Letter writer Alan Wylie highlighted the issue recently, and said: "This grassy area is one of Largs' key assets, and while the additional visitors and business brought into the town by these events is welcome, the damage incurred this year is simply unsustainable. Admittedly, the problem has been made worse this year by the wetter than average summer, but I hope North Ayrshire Council will think carefully and work with the event organisers before allowing a repeat next year."
Grahame Ross, who took the photograph this week, said: "I have never seen the grass in such a mess before."
Councillor Alex Gallagher, who is chair of the Largs Viking Festival said: "The council maintain that area of ground, and in past years, it has always been quick to recover.
"However, there have been another factor this year with the weather having been absolutely horrendous, and the damage is greater than in previous years.
"Seed was put down last week, and I expect that the council will continue to keep trying to recover it.
"The Festival is aware of the situation, and keeping an eye on it."
The bad weather has resulted in cancellation of some golf and bowling events in the local area during recent weeks, with greenkeepers stating that it has taken a longer time for the grass to recover due to the inclement weather.
A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We have carried out extensive work – including spiking and raking and putting down grass seeds – to try and restore the area following the Viking Festival and Food Fair.
“We are confident the grass will recover but the inclement weather isn’t helping and this may take time.”