Irvine's Marymass Festival delights Captain and police

Aug 29 2008 Irvine Herald

JUBILANT Carters’ Captain Danny Kerr declared his first Marymass as resounding success.

Captain Kerr said he was delighted with the public reaction to the events of Marymass Saturday.

He told the Irvine Herald: “Everything went well. We had the crowds, the weather and a beautiful Queen and Marys. What more could you ask for?”

He was speaking after police revealed there were just FOUR arrests during the day which attracted more than 30,000 people.

Captain Kerr went on: “There are a couple of wee points that need to be ironed out but overall I think everyone enjoyed the day.

“I think the police operation has returned Marymass back to the family. You could see that by the number of people lining the street and on the Moor.”

His comments came after the police officer in charge of the huge operation hailed the event’s “great family atmosphere.”

Superintendent Stephen McGrath, policing his first ever Marymass, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the way the day went.

“Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the atmosphere was great. It was a real family affair which is what Marymass should be.”

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on Irvine Moor at 12.40pm for alleged possession of a class c drug.

Another 16-year-old lad was arrested on the Moor at 3.20pm for a breach of the peace.

A 28-year-old man was nicked near the play park opposite Carrick Drive at 3.25pm for alleged possession of cannabis.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested for a breach of the peace and resisting arrest on the Moor at 4.45pm.

A 48-year-old man arrested for a breach of the peace, resisting arrest and police assault, following an incident outside the Kings Arms, High Street, Irvine, shortly before 1am on Sunday.

A massive 175 officers policed the event with officers stationed all along the parade route.

Plain-clothed officers joined uniform cops out on the Moor where a mobile police station, cctv and operation centre was based.