CUMNOCK is set to turn into a winter wonderland in the build up to the festive season.

It has been announced that the town centre will stage the Cumnock Christmas Festival next month.

The towns first ever Christmas Festival has been earmarked for November 25 at The Square in Cumnock.

Numerous local groups have banded together to plan the winter showpiece event.

Cumnock business association, Cumnock Action Plan, East Ayrshire's Vibrant Communities and a number of other community groups and well minded citizens are coming together and aiming to light up the town square as they get in to the Christmas spirit with a Christmas market, an indoor market as well as stalls and entertainment and even a flying visit from Santa.

The Festival will be from 4pm until 8pm.

A spokesman for the organising committee said: "The groups have been working hard and are well advanced with the plans for the night, where they aim to introduce a Christmas market in the square alongside an indoor market in the nearby church hall on the Barhill, with a great mixture of food and seasonal crafts for some Christmas gift ideas.

"A stage will be set up in the Square for some open air entertainment from the school children along with other local bands and singers that will be announced soon.

"There will be vintage fire trucks, games and entertainment for the children and let's not forget the star of the show, Santa Claus. Santa has gladly accepted our invitation and will be in his Christmas Grotto inside the Parish Church until it's time for him to switch on the lights and start the festive celebrations for Cumnock."

The group are keeping keen business owners and residents up to date ion their Facebook page

Should you wish to have a market stall for your product on the night or have a band or music group that would wish to showcase their talents, then get in touch with the group through the facebook page; www.facebook.com/cumnockchristmasfestival.

Alternatively you can email your request for an application form to Gr14ay@gmail.com.