MILLPORT'S September Weekend celebrated another successful weekend as it edges towards 90 years on the island.
It was a bumper weekend of fun with crabbing and sandcastle building competitions, mini Millport's Got Talent, a family ceilidh, the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra performing at the Cathedral of the Isles, and one of the most spectacular fireworks displays that the island has ever seen.
Former Millport correspondent for the News, Mary Currie, was manning the tourism information desk at the Garrison on the weekend, and was highly impressed with the efforts of the Isle of Cumbrae Tourism Association (IOCTA) for organising such a successful event.
She said: "I loved every minute of it. Well done to IOCTA for organising the most fabulous weekend. To every single person who contributed in any way, that's what makes this island so special.
"Well done everyone who took part in any way in the brilliant September weekend festival. I am so proud of this wee island.
Scott Ferris, owner of Mapes of Millport, said: "Thank you so much for awarding us the Best Dressed Shop Window for the Millport September Weekend!
"We're absolutely thrilled and honoured to be recognized among so many fantastic local businesses.
"It's joy to be part of this vibrant event and showcase our creativity for the community.
"A huge thank you to everyone who visited, admired, and supported us—we couldn't have done it without you!"
The Saturday night entertainment before the fireworks saw a number of premises have special shows at their front entrance.
It was Shang-a-Lang time at The Newton Bar as it performed a nostalgic look back to Lulu and The Bay City Rollers with their eagerly anticipated annual dance routine outside the bar drawing in the crowds once more in a truly Caledonia affair!
The Ritz Cafe on the seafront transformed into a magical wonderland for one night only.
Visitors could step through the looking glass and join in for an unforgettable tea party - complete with mad hatters, curious treats, and a dash of island charm.
And it was congratulations to Sam McEnhill who was this year's winner of the crabbing competition after a fantastic turnout with 137 entrants.
The winners of the competitions are as follows:
- Sand Sculpture Competition -Family Winner Sand Scappers - Loch Ness Monster; Commended Flip Flops - Save Our Sausage Sandwich, Commended The Black Pearl Pirate Ship; Children's Winner Sandcastle PG Turtle, Commended GPS Rockpool
- Island Express Trophy for special effort: The Ritz Alice in Wonderland
- Children's story: Winner Daisy Newton - The Gouklan Witches, Commended - Reenie Henry - A paddle Adventure, Commended Payton McBride - Stephen and the Whale
- Photography: Winner Davy Dyer - 60 years apart, Commended Daisy Newton Millport to me means Happiness and Freedom, Commended Jean Stewart
- Shop Window: Winner Mapes Toy Shop, Commended Sweet Shop, Commended Hepzie Bee
- Hospitality: Winner The Newton Bar, Commended The Ritz Commended Lucas/Twa Dugs
- Street Entertainment: Winner Annie's, Commended Lucas/Twa Dugs, Commended The Newton Bar Children's Favourite: 21 Kelburne St. Lilo and Stitch
- Best House: Winner Craigard Willie Wonka, Commended 5 Golf Road Under the Sea, Commended 26 Kames St Beetlejuice
- Best Flat Window: Winner Beside the Bay Fern Andy, Commended 5 Kelburne St GBX 30 year tribute, Commended 7 Glasgow St Halloween
- Children's Fancy Dress: Winner Harris Doherty Indian Rock, Commended Lily Harry Freya Three blind mice, Commended Florence Rainbow
Thanks to Elizabeth Ireland and Amanda Tennant for the photos.
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