A GROUP of crochet and knitting fans from Auchinleck have joined in the effort to help a Mauchline youngster get to New York for potentially life-saving cancer treatment.

The Auchinleck Crochet and Knit group's members are among the latest local residents to decide to do their bit for Ava Bolton, who was recently diagnosed with stage 4 high risk neuroblastoma.

As part of her recovery after treatment, Ava's family are aiming to raise £250,000 to send the youngster to a new vaccination treatment in New York, once her current 18-month treatment cycle is complete.

However, the communities around Mauchline have really been doing their part to support the family, with various fund-raising efforts, charity raffles and all sorts happening toget the cash to send Ava to America.

The Auchinleck Crochet and Knit group raised a magnificent £1,000 through a bucket collection at Tesco and by running a lucky box raffle.

Raffle winner, Mairi Allan, kindly gifted the prize of crocheted Betrix Potter soft toys to wee Ava.

The Tesco bucket collection, where a lucky dip of crocheted keyrings and book markers where given as a gesture of appreciation, raised £660, and the Lucky Box raffle brought in £126.

Cumnock Chronicle: Betrix Potter soft toys.Betrix Potter soft toys. (Image: Auchinleck Crochet and Knit group)

The amount was made up to £1,000 through the group's charity fund.

A group representative said: "We would like to thank Tesco and the local community for their amazing support and wish Ava and her family all the very best.

"If you are interested in learning a new skill, meeting people while helping the community and other charities why not join us at The Boswell Centre Auchinleck Wednesday nights 6pm-8pm.

"All are welcome, or contact Janice Gemmell on 07746 782973 or Christine Walker on 07928 232650."