A KIND-hearted Ayrshire dad has once again played his part in putting a smile on the faces of children spending the holidays in hospital.

Michael Kirkum, assisted by his son Michael junior, handed over their final donation to the Crosshouse Children's Fund at the end of last week following months of fund-raising efforts.

Their donation drive saw an outstanding 1,500 Easter eggs handed into the Kilmarnock hospital alongside a number of toys for the children in various wards to be gifted.

The father-son pair also donated £400 to the charity for Ayrshire’s babies and children in hospital thanks to outstanding support from Darren Clark and CJ Lang and Son.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Michael Kirkum and his son Michael jnr made their Easter donation at Crosshouse Hospital at the end

Michael Kirkum, a selfless Kilwinning resident, has been giving back during holiday periods for over a decade.

During Christmas and Easter, this fund-raising hero appeals for donations from locals and business owners to bring joy to Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock.

This year marked the 13th time he has run the annual Easter appeal, and comes only months after he was recognised in the UK Parliament for his outstanding generosity over the Christmas period.

Michael's Christmas toy drive delivered his 20,000th gift this year, and he was later recognised for his kindness by the office of the Prime Minister, receiving a ‘Points of Light’ award and letter.  

A motion tabled in the UK Parliament by Patricia Gibson, MP for North Ayrshire and Arran, later informed the House about Michael's many holiday appeals, describing the Kilwinning man as an "outstanding volunteer" and commending his "inspiring commitment to improving the lives of children in his community in Kilwinning and across Ayrshire".

Following his latest donation, which was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Ayrshire community and businesses that support his efforts, Michael was extremely thankful for all who offered a helping hand.

He said: “I am deeply humbled by the response the Easter appeal receives each year, for without the donations, this would not be possible. Thank you to everyone who makes this possible.

"We would like to thank Lynne Stevenston, Lyle Porter, Neil Brothers Garage, Billy's B,arbers Energyze Personal Training, On Fire for Driving, Darren Clark, CJ Land and everyone else who makes it so successful."

Rebekah McGinn from the Crosshouse Children’s Fund, added: “Once again, the Kirkums have shown their incredible generosity with this special Easter gift for children in hospital.  

“Thank you so much to them and the businesses across Ayrshire who supported this monumental effort.”