CROWDS turned out in force to see Ardrossan's fantastic festive lights switched on last Friday, (November 29).

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) And it was all thanks to local volunteers who fundraised for the event after North Ayrshire Council cut the lights budget due to financial pressure.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) The Ardrossan Christmas Lights Group ran a Crowdfunder to raise cash for this year's big switch-on.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) And it paid off as locals, young and old, enjoyed a brilliant evening of entertainment.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) The grand Santa Parade set off through the town early on Friday evening, making its way along Glasgow Street to the Civic Centre, where the grand switch on took place at 6.15pm.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) The wee ones enjoyed some great fairground rides and got the chance to meet Santa himself in his Grotto.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) Older members of the audiences were treated to some fantastic entertainment and the chance to browse through some of the stalls offering treats and goodies.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) Well done to the lights group for organising such a brilliant event - and we're already looking forward to next year's...

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) Pictures by Charlie Gilmour.

(Image: Charlie Gilmour) (Image: Charlie Gilmour) (Image: Charlie Gilmour) (Image: Charlie Gilmour)