THE 2017 Lights and Laughter event in Beith, writes Donald L Reid, was a simply superlative Santa show.

Even the weather was on best behaviour drawing locals out in large number.

In fact it was very mild, dry and undoubtedly ranks as the best evening of the 12 years of this festive event.

Santa and his followers paraded through the town along Eglinton Street led by the Linwood Pipe Band.

Arriving at the Cross they were warmly greeted by perhaps the largest gathering of locals ever seen at this event.

The parade stopped whilst the lights were switched on to loud cheering and the ho, ho, ho man then carried out to his base in Beith library where the expectant youngsters were queued to meet their special pal.

The Christmas tree was nicely decorated and with the colourful backdrop of the decorated Auld Kirk it was a splendid sight, bringing festive cheer to the town for the next four weeks.

The joint choir from Beith and Gateside Primary School were in great form entertaining beside the Christmas tree at the cross to the delight of the appreciative audience.

Meanwhile in the Masonic Hall a dance school put on a spellbinding dance display which was also well supported.

At the Mitchell Street end of Main Street there were several fairground rides which were also well patronised by enthusiastic locals who always enjoy the fund of the fair.

Those who prefer to remain indoors were also catered for in the library where there were a variety of stalls selling Christmas goodies whilst upstairs Santa was kept very busy meeting young Beithites.

Beith Townhouse was also doing a roaring trade with their festive goodies as well as audio visual displays of Beith of yesterday and today.

Many of the shops in the town also remained open and their colourful window displays were appealing, drawing local in where in many cases there were free goodies to enjoy.

It would be remiss not to pass on the thanks of all at Beith Town Centre Initiative who plan, fundraise and deliver this special event in the town’s calendar each year.

It was a resounding success so thanks to all the background and unsung heroes who make it happen. It was a great team effort and much appreciated by everyone.

Thanks to all who made the 2017 Lights and Laughter parade rather special.