Charitable festive Prestwick parade returns

FESTIVE CHEER: Prestwick Santa Parade characters hoping to build on last year's success (Credit: Peter Raw)

Organisers of a festive parade taking place in Prestwick next week believe its comeback will be “bigger and better” following last years success.

The Santa Parade returns to the South Ayrshire town on December 21, with those involved sharing their excitement of being involved and spreading the festive cheer.

Those looking forward to waving on the festive characters parading the town’s streets believe the event is a “worthwhile cause” and gets local children hooked.

One Prestwick resident said: “It’s such a lovely thing to do for the community and the happiness you see on the street is just magical. I can’t wait to see my son’s face when we go out.

“We’re so excited and we’re really grateful for it.”

A focus for organisers is providing for elderly residents in the local area with the help of donations given throughout the parade’s duration.

Wheels in Motion, an Ayr-based Christian charity tackling and homeless and addiction issues, thanked the previous year’s participants for their collection of tinned food and packets for local foodbanks to help those affected.

Charity founder Suzanne Algeo says “copious amounts” of donations have been delivered for those in need as a result of the parade.

She said: “The donations mean we are able to give each person a generous amount of food to take away, however it serves as a greater purpose in that it makes them feel valued to know that others are willing to go out and help them.

“We are so appreciative of all the support the Santa Parade, and all those who donate to them, have given us.”

The 2024 parade, in cooperation with SPAR, JAF Services and RS Garden & Ground Maintenance, was said to have “blown away” organisers on their social media following the volume of donations received.

Further updates and details of the upcoming parade will be provided via their social pages.