KILBIRNIE'S festive lights are set to return this year after a successful public meeting was held in the town.

Last year, the Kilbirnie Town Centre Management Initiative warned that the 2023 festive switch-on would be the last unless new volunteers could be found to run the project.

They said that due to a small and ageing committee, they were in desperate need of new members to step up and assist with organising duties, as well as tasks on the night itself.

However, locals have now stepped up to help the Santa cause.

Around 50 people packed into Bridgend Community Centre on July 10, with new volunteers found to help with the big festive switch-on for 2024.

The current committee, which comprises around eight people, has been working hard over recent years to light up the town, to great success and much acclaim.

The committee will remain in place to encourage and support the new crop of volunteers who stepped forward last week.

A huge amount of preparatory work is involved, from vital fundraising to liaising with various departments in North Ayrshire Council, as well as physically getting trees and lights positioned in Kilbirnie and Glengarnock.

Arranging for the ‘Switch On Day’ also involves many volunteers playing a vital role, with teamwork and early planning crucial to the event's success.

Regular monthly meetings will now be held to ensure that progress on all fronts is carried through.

Garnock Valley councillor Donald L. Reid said: "It was heartening to see many folk volunteering for a range and variety of tasks which need to be carried out.

"It looks like Kilbirnie is well positioned to have a bright festive season.

"Thanks to the current committee and all who turned up and offered their services as volunteers."

If you’d like to join the team who will bring smiles of joy in Kilbirnie this Christmas, more volunteers are very welcome.

Information can be found on the 'Kilbirnie Town Centre Management Initiative - KTCMI' page on Facebook.