A STEVENSTON pub has launched a charity project ahead of the Christmas season.

The Red Squirrel has set up a 'giving tree' within its bar, in a bid to ensure everyone receives gifts this Christmas.

The initiative has been set up alongside the North Ayrshire Council social work department, and the local branch of Women's Aid, who will be working alongside families in the area who are most in need.

Locals who are able to are being asked to bring along gift donations of toys and clothing.

They are being encouraged to bring items which are still boxed, or new with tags on, due to council guidelines - however Women's Aid will be accepting any second hand gifts.

The pub also ran the project this time last year, and helped amass donations of 130 presents for families in North Ayrshire.

This year, they are looking to beat that total with a target set at 150 this time around.

A spokesperson said: "Pop along to The Red Squirrel with your donations. We are also accepting donations for adults and clothing!

"Any outerwear such as jackets, hats, scarfs, shoes and wellies are a must have!

"Due to North Ayrshire guidelines all gifts will be unwrapped for safety purposes, and must be new in box.

"If you have anything hidden in your cupboards still with tags, you can hand them in to us, and we will pass them along to the social work department."

The pub will be accepting donations until December 20.