Paralympic hero Kayleigh to switch on Ayr’s festive display this Sunday

AYR sports hero Kayleigh Haggo has been chosen to turn on this year’s Christmas lights.

Kayleigh, who has won three gold medals at the European Paralympic Youth Games, set 13 world records and four national age group records in swimming, race running and club throw sports, confirmed her attendance at the festive event in a post on Facebook last week.

She told her followers: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been asked to switch on the Ayr Christmas lights this year!

“I will be on stage from 4.45pm, ready to turn on the lights at 5pm.”

The lights switch on is part of the “Little Stars Light Up in Ayr” event, which will see a series of free activities, attractions and entertainment in the centre of the town this Sunday, November 20, from 12 noon until 5pm.

To continue the celebration of Scotland’s Year of Stories, younger children will be able to enjoy festive story-telling sessions in the Kids’ Zone - part of the Once Upon a Time in South Ayrshire programme of events, which is supported by EventScotland.

The High Street will be festooned with a range of acts and performers including stilt walkers, jugglers and Fabulous Fraser with his balloon modelling.

Children and grown-ups will also be able to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season by taking a ride on Santa’s Express Train along the High Street and visiting the Giant Christmas Wish Tree and Giant Chair, just a short stroll from The Wallace Tower.

Santa himself is even planning to make an appearance! He’ll be welcoming visitors in his grotto at Nile Court between 1pm and 4.30pm.

Elsewhere, the Grain Exchange will host a wonderful Christmas market full of local traders with some great Christmas shopping options.

There will even be a Christmas funfair on the High Street as well as a new attraction a Snow Globe.

This free experience will be located in the town’s Newmarket Street. You’ll be able to step inside the magical snow globe and create some wonderful memories with a photo opportunity that’s not to be missed!