Stars from the worlds of music and sport will be joining forces to add sparkle to the annual Christmas lights switch-on in Ayr. Thousands of people are expected to gather for the South Ayrshire Council festive favourite, which this year takes place on High Street on Sunday 20 November.
Stars of stage and screen, Gareth Gates and Michelle Heaton, will be joined by local hero, Paralympian Robyn Love, who fresh from Rio 2016, will be joining the celebrations as part of a programme of events being organised for the big day.
Councillor Bill Grant, South Ayrshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Tourism & Leisure said he was looking forward to starting the countdown to Christmas, "The big switch on is an event that's popular with young and old and we're hoping for a great turnout on the night.
"We've brought together a great line-up this year with an inspirational local hero sharing the stage with two singers that I'm sure will get the crowd in high spirits with some familiar songs that will really help to set the scene.
"Although the elements were against us last year, I have my fingers well and truly crossed for better weather and a very merry night to be enjoyed by all the family."
Gareth Gates (Legally Blonde, Les Miserables, Dancing On Ice, Pop Idol) will headline the event performing hits from his pop and stage career.
Gareth said, "To be asked to switch on the Christmas lights is fantastic and I'm so pleased to be back in Ayr again. I was here earlier this year at the town hall in Mad About the Musicals, so it's fair to say I love the place!"
Michelle Heaton (Liberty X) will appear as the wicked queen in this year's Gaiety Panto 'Snow White and the seven dwarfs' and will be joining Gareth and Robyn on stage for the big switch on with Gareth and Michelle both keen to meet and greet fans afterwards too.
And it will be a homecoming to remember for 26 year old Robyn from Ayr. The athlete rounds off a memorable year, having finished in 4th place in the Wheelchair Basketball event at Rio, and is excited to be involved in the big switch on.
There will be entertainment throughout the day from 12-6pm. The main stage entertainment on High Street is from 4-6pm, with the lights switch on taking place at 6pm.
Other events in Ayr town centre include musical appearances throughout town from local acts Sean C Kennedy, Three Card Trick, Marc Evans, Andy Kerr, Rubicon, Kyle Hood and Little Twist of Fate. Plus Ayr Central will be a hive of activity with the Ayrshire Santa Dash, Farmers Market, Walkabout Theatre and more.