Increasing the use of Gaelic speaking in Largs and Millport, and surrounding area, will see extended scope in schools.

North Ayrshire Council has committed to continuing its strong support for Gaelic culture, language and learning.

As well as continuing the work outlined in the original document, the aims detailed in the new plan include developing capacity among early years, primary and secondary school staff to encourage Gaelic learning.

The next stage of the council's Gaelic plan, which will run until 2024, will build on the work already achieved by the council in relation to making the language more common place, with funding from the Scottish Government.

It is also hoped to increase the number of bilingual staff and volunteers available to support learning opportunities for adults, and further support will be available to new and existing cultural community groups, with the aim of encouraging new learners.

Plans to raise the profile of Gaelic in North Ayrshire include holding an annual Council Gaelic Day to promote the language and to increase the visibility of Gaelic, as well as offering training opportunities to NAC staff.

The original Gaelic Language Plan was a statutory requirement for local authorities,

Already there is an active Gaelic Forum, a substantial collection of Gaelic books in North Ayrshire libraries, Gaelic Bookbug sessions, culture, heritage and music language development with schools as well as community-based learning opportunities.

Councillor Louise McPhater, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “The plan is to increase the visibility of Gaelic by extending the range of phrases used on signage on Council buildings, vehicles, and adding Gaelic content to the website.

“This revised plan will see us build on the good work which has been done so far, further increasing the visibility of the language, increasing its status and playing our part in delivering the National Gaelic Language Plan.”