Tide in for book fest

“A feast for the heart and mind.”

So says Tidelines Book Festival patron and awardwinning author Andrew

O’Hagan. Andrew, an Ayrshire boy and Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, says: “It makes me proud to see the area I grew up in

celebrate writing in such style.”

Tidelines will take place in Irvine’s Harbourside from September 26- 29.

Opening with a night of foot- stomping heartswelling music from Scots Trad instrumentalist of the year Gary Innes and featuring Ewen Henderson, lead singer with Scottish super- group Manran the festival brings 17 author events over three days. From children’s storytelling to murder mysteries, and from historical fiction to gin tasting, there is something to suit everyone.

North Ayrshire’s only independent book festival is run entirely by volunteers and has certainly packed a punch in the world of books.

Now in its seventh year, the festival attracts authors from across Scotland and this year features an “Icelandic Noir” event with two prize- winning

Icelandic crime writers, as well as a book launch, a nature walk, art exhibition a n d b o o k b i n d i n g demonstrations. For the full programme, find brochures in your library, or visit www. tidelinesbookfest. com

There’s something for everyone at the Communities Fun Day at Ayr Citadel this Saturday, and it’s all FREE 11am – 4pm.

In the Fun Zone there will be Gladiator Duels; Blackstone Clydesdale Horse Rides; Bunny Love Petting Zoo; Face Painting; Bungee Runs and much more.

You can experience Virtual Reality Gaming and Fun Swim with inflatables available in the pool area throughout the day.

The Information Zone gives you the opportunity to speak to staff from various Council services, Community Groups and Charities.

West FM has the entertainment covered with the West FM Dance Party.

And live performances from Ayr Dance Vision; Jo Jingles; Sophie Oliver School of Dance; Bookbug and New Road Dance Academy will keep all the family entertained.

This is a free ticketed e v e n t . To av o i d disappointment on the day, book your ticket by visiting www. sacfunday2019. eventbrite. co. uk.

Stagecoach West Scotland will be providing free shuttle buses.

The coaches will leave from Ayr Bus Station and Ayr Beach Car Park at Blackburn Drive.

Communities Fun Day has proved a hit now for years.