THE countdown to Christmas has started in Saltcoats as the town's festive lights were officially switched on at the weekend.

Families were treated to a full-day's entertainment at this year's Santa Parade and Christmas Lights Switch-on, which took place on Sunday, November 20.

The lights were switched on by Meghan Tulloch from St Anthony's Primary and Joe Buttle from Dykesmains Primary. 

Martha McNicol from Saltcoats Community Action, the group organising the event, said that there was “a tremendous turnout from the community” and that Santa's Grotto was “overwhelmed” with kids.

She added: “One shopkeeper reckoned he took more in three hours than he would on a good Saturday. Another said it was the best day in Saltcoats for years. 

“The North Ayrshire School pupils did a tremendous job entertaining at The Zone and the switch-on went without a hitch. I was standing beside a grandparent of one of the children who did the switch on and they were very emotional and proud. 

“The craft fair was exceptionally well patronised. Dance Mafia and Streetbeatz attracted a huge audience. The funfair and ice rink added to the extra excitement to the day.”

The entertainment kicked off at 11am in Saltcoats Town Hall, where North Ayrshire Citizens Advice Service (NACAS) held a craft event.

Nina Smith, chief executive of NACAS said: “This is the first year we have held a Charity Christmas Fair to celebrate the Christmas light turn-on in Saltcoats and it was a great success, thanks to our charity volunteers and fantastic stalls. 

“It was wonderful to play our part in this annual community event, the organisers did the town proud.”