A GROUP of four kind-hearted locals have thanked the community for supporting their fundraising efforts.

James Biernat, Gordon Cowan, Robert Reid and Darren Donnelly took to Millport last weekend in a bid to raise funds for this year's Ardrossan Christmas lights switch-on.

Their efforts saw the group travel around the island several times - covering a total distance of 40 miles.

While it was a gruelling day, and the team were in pain for the days that followed, they powered through knowing it was all for a good cause.

(Image: Submitted)

The challenge was completed to boost a wider fundraiser which is aiming to ensure the success of Ardrossan's Christmas lights event.

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 James Biernat found out about the fundraiser, he was quick to think about how he could help out.

It was after this that he assembled some friends who took on the Millport challenge.

(Image: Submitted)

They were also boosted by support from the Three Towns Men's Shed - who provided two bikes and helmets - and North Ayrshire Tandem Cycling who provided a tandem bike.

James said: “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.

“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.”

There is still time to support the fundraiser, which can be found online at tinyurl.com/ArdrossanChristmasLights.