Troon Business Association which has shared in the cost of brightening up Troon with Christmas lighting for a number of years, has handed over a cheque for £2,500 to the Leader of South Ayrshire, Councillor Andy Hill, in support of the recent festive display.

After presenting the cheque, the Associations Treasurer, George Mulveny, and Membership Secretary, Mrs Marian Lochrie were thanked by Councillor Hill for the interest taken by businesses and members of the public - in Troon in helping fund the decorations and lighting,

Said Councillor Hill: I really am delighted that Troon Business Association acts in partnership with us and makes the contribution which it does annually to defray some of the cost that the Council meets in putting up the festive lighting.

Throughout South Ayrshire the Council financially contributes a total of £80,000 to enable or enhance Christmas lighting.

Given the financial restraints that the Council is under, we do our best to financially support as many locations as possible. We appreciate, and congratulate, the efforts of local business associations and community groups that contribute in cash or kind within their local areas.

Added Councillor Hill: I was present at the official switch on of the Christmas lights in Troon. Before inviting Troons Gala Princess, Rebecca Anne Milton to perform the task of activating the lights, assisted by her attendant, Nicole Sim, I congratulated Troon Business Association chairman, Alex Ross on the staging of TroonsWintertainment bringing Christmas cheer to the centre of Troon.

I am delighted to accept the cheque for £2,500 towards the cost of Troons festive lights.

Said Mr Mulveny: Over the past four years our association has contributed a total of £11,000 towards the lighting.

Explained Mrs Lochrie: The money raised comes from contributions from local businesses and also as a result of generous donations from the public on our Wintertainment day.

January 2005