GOUROCK Garden Party will go ahead as planned on Father's Day - but will have to be scaled back.

There were fears that Inverclyde's longest running community event would be cancelled due to council budget cuts.

George Irvine, chair of Gourock Garden Party, was concerned about grant funding for the popular get-together not arriving in time for the June 16 date.

But Councillor Lynne Quinn insists the show will go on, although it will be a trimmed-down version.

She said: "We are confident that we will get the funds.

"The timing has been the same as it has always been but normally we have reserves.

"But the last couple of years the weather has not been kind and we have been left with a lower balance.

"George was concerned as it takes a lot of money to run it and the Grants to Voluntary Organisations budget has been reduced.

"We are still certain the councillors on the committee will support the application, knowing what a great public event this is."

The decision over grant approval will take place on June 19.

Councillor Quinn says this year's bash will be scaled down to reduce costs.

She said: "We are looking at re-designing the event but at the same time retaining its community spirit."

Traditionally the organisation has been a collaborative effort between Gourock Horticultural Society and Gourock Community Council but in recent years volunteers have been thin on the ground.

Cllr Quinn said: "We need practical help, people to stand on the gates and collect donations.

"We need people to get behind this long-running event.

"It's important that the garden party continues, it's not just a Gourock event, it's Inverclyde-wide."

Mr Irvine added: "It also supports local charities and if anyone wants to book a stall, we need to know which organisation they are from and what they are doing."

Geraldine Harron, secretary of Gourock Community Council, said: "It's a time for people to get together.

"It's a big social event in the town.

"I remember attending the garden party when I was seven-years-old and won the pram parade with my dolls of the world collection and it is important for it to be passed down to future generations.

"If you're going to do something for Father's Day then come along to Gourock Garden Party."

Anyone who wants to book a stall should call 633432 or email georgeirvine1940@gmail.com