A KIND-hearted group of locals have launched another fundraising event in a bid to support this year's Christmas lights switch-on in Ardrossan.

As is the case across the county, council budget cuts mean the Ardrossan Christmas Lights Group have to bridge a funding gap.

As a result, the volunteer group launched a fundraiser - with the aim of raising £4,000 to help make sure they can put the lights up before ensuring these are maintained and stored for future events.

These funds will help ensure another successful year when the big switch on - which will feature a parade, carols, entertainers and Christmas market stalls - takes place on Friday, November 29.

When local man James Biernat heard of their efforts, he was quick to jump in to see how he could help.

Now, with the support of around half a dozen friends, a group are set to put the miles in to boost the fundraising effort.

The assembled team will be heading to Millport on Saturday, November 2, with a planned 40-mile cycle to take place.

With support from the local Men's Shed, who have provided a number of bikes for the event, two of the team will even be completing their efforts on a tandem.

(Image: Staff/Submitted)

James commented: “The main aim is trying to raise as much as we can. The more people that we get involved to get the word out, we can get more donations.

“When I lived in Dumfries and Galloway there was an event on that needed funds  and I cycled to Carlisle and raised £16,500.

“When I seen the idea of trying to raise funds for the switch on, I thought I could do similar again.

“We want the lights up, we don’t want this town to suffer – and we want to get the community involved and do something to make it happen.”

Those wishing to support their effort in person can join the group on the 10.15am ferry over to the island.

Those wishing to make a donation can do so online at tinyurl.com/ArdrossanChristmasLights.