Santa is coming to Saltcoats this Friday for an evening of fun for the whole family.

The new Christmas lights will be switched on at The Zone, Dockhead Street (formerly the Landsborough Church). The fun begins at 5.45pm.

It has been a number of years since the town had Christmas lights, largely due to lack of funding support.

Local engineering company Booth Welsh ensured the go-ahead by sponsoring the lights.

There will be music courtesy of Starlite Disco, some great dancing by Dancemafia, music from the Salvation Army Choir, face painting, crafts, brass band and more. Santa will arrive about 6pm to 6.15pm - providing his elves give him time off.

Marcus Hazel-McGown of Saltcoats Community Action told the Herald that the whole group has been delighted with the response from the local community. He said: “I am really pleased that, after much door stepping of local businesses, Saltcoats will have some Christmas cheer finally.”

Martin Welsh, Booth Welsh Managing Director, said: “ As a business which grew up in the Three Towns, we are always keen to support the local community and give back where we can. ”

Martha McNicol, Secretary of Saltcoats Community Action Group added: “Saltcoats Community Action Group is absolutely delighted that Martin Welsh of Booth Welsh listened to our plea as initially the group had no funds or Christmas lights. By agreeing to give sponsorship for Christmas lights, Booth Welsh is giving the Saltcoats community what has been missing for some years and will allow the town to have a Christmas atmosphere once again. The group sincerely thank Booth Welsh for their generosity.”

Working with Councillor Ronnie McNicol the group wrote to local businesses, delivered letters and personally called on the local community to support them. Community workers Shirley Morgan and Louise Riddex also worked tirelessly with the group.

A young dance group Dancemafia , children aged 4 - 14 years of age, held a sponsored Danceathon and raised the amazing sum of £1188.26. Cunninghame Housing Association also joined in with a Cheque for £1000 to add their support to the cause.

Marcus added: “To everyone who has contributed, be it financially, donating raffle prizes,completing a sponsored event or accepting lights on their property the group would like to express their sincere thanks.”