Thumbs up from Giro d’Italia festival-goers

A feast of entertainment was laid on from the town centre to Marine Gardens to keep visitors amused ahead of the main event,

In the guise of Panini the pizza chef, Brian McConnell, of Premiere Circus, took time out from his unicycle and juggling act, to tell the TIMES: “It’s brilliant, the sun has come out, everybody is happy and everybody is getting into the Italian vibe.”

His views were echoed by Euphoria gym members Emily Jane Cloke and Lauren Poots who were encouraging people to try spin bikes at a town centre hostelry. Emily noted there was “a really good spirit” while Lauren added “everybody is very friendly and positive”.

Appreciating music in High Street were Anita and Keith Magill. “The singing was nice. It’s a good atmosphere,” said Anita, who also noted that people were embracing the spirit of the occasion by wearing pink.

Providing music at the castle were the members of Sir Henry Ingelsby’s Corps of Fife and Drums. John McMurran, in Williamite costume, observed: “It’s a brilliant day. A good crowd and the weather’s holding up.”