Millport’s Sail & Oar Festival returns on Saturady 9 and Sunday 10 August and promises to be fun for all the family, with a full schedule of nautical events.

On Saturday 9th August, there is skiff racing in Newton Bay all day. If anyone want to get involved they should pop down to the beach as there will also be the chance to ‘come and try’ rowing.

At Leck Jetty (Crocodile Rock) Sports Scotland will be running come and try power boating and dinghy sailing (weather-permitting).

There will be displays and demonstrations in the Garrison grounds by Garnock Canoe Club, Firth of Clyde Rowing Club and the RNLI.

A variety of traditional and local music will be performed during the day with favourites ‘The Journeymen,’ playing in the marquee at 2.45pm, as well as local guitar talent, Andy Gallagher. A group of young musicians from across North Ayrshire will also play in an ensemble.

‘Millport Dance Troupe’ and ‘The Locals’ will be wowing the crowds with their dance moves.

Scotch Broth Productions will be performing excerpts from their hilarious new theatre production ‘The McDougalls’ at noon and 2pm.

Fraser Carle will M.C on the day and ensure the kids remain entertained every minute.

There will be a model boat making competition with two prizes up for grabs for best design and best sailor, as well as a variety of novelty races and parachute games as well as the annual tug of war.

In the evening, there is Jim Jam Ceilidh Band headlining with support from homegrown talent ‘The Journeymen’. Tickets are just £5 for adults and kids are admitted free, available now from Marinas hairdressers and The Newton bar.

And on Sunday 10 August, it is the highly popular Millport Raft Race takes place at 1.30pm, and it’s not too late to enter your team. Pick up an entry form from The Royal George Hotel. Make sure you come along and cheer them on and bring your water balloons! - all the fun begins at * There is also a disco with Escape Promotions at night in The Royal George Hotel. All proceeds raised go to Millport Parent and Toddler Group.

If anyone might be interested in joining the committee to help with fundraising efforts, please contact Emma on emmanewton82@gmail.com or mobile 079178 62886