SALTCOATS enjoyed a fantastically busy festive lights switch-on last Sunday – with crowds gathering to watch Santa abseil down the Town Hall.

Alec Wilkie, Chairman of the Saltcoats Christmas Lights Committee, told the Herald: “What an amazing day Sunday was for Saltcoats.

“The turnout for the carnival event was huge. Never seen the town centre so busy, it was just a delight to see.

“It was wonderful seeing all the smiling faces enjoying the parade, stage events, Santa’s grotto, dance shows and choirs and even the walking dinosaur.

“We even had impromptu dancing policeman which was fantastic as they really embraced the atmosphere on the main stage.

“Having the fairground in the Euro Parks carpark was also a huge success bringing sound and light to Vernon street and at only £5 for an all day unlimited ride wristband was great.

“The Grande Finale set a buzz in Countess Street with Santa’s Elf making sure Santa’s abseil down the clock tower would be smooth.

“We didn’t expect Santa to get his groove on and dance his way down which really was a huge crowd pleaser.

“In summing up it was just a great day and great for the town.

“I’m proud to be chairman of the group and their support is above and beyond, totally committed to the event.

“We are a small group of businesses and individuals who have pulled this together and always looking to have more help in the group.

“I’d like to thank all the business that supported and contributed to funding this event.

“They will have Christmas Bauble Sticker in their window so look out for these and support the businesses that support our community, it does make a difference.

“I’d also like to thank North Ayrshire Council for stepping in and installing our lights at the 11th hour and, of course, for letting Santa arrive in a fashion never seen anywhere else except Saltcoats town.”

Congratulations to the organisers for another successful switch-on event.

For more pictures, see this week's Herald.