The festivities officially got underway in Millport with a Christmas weekend spectacular last Friday, writes Mary Currie.

A Santa parade took place despite the rain but it was a bright spectacle with lanterns, followed by the pipe band which even had lit up bagpipes and costumes.

This was followed by Father Christmas himself and he received a lift on Mapes' van keeping him dry and warm.

The parade marched to the pier and then onwards to a special Santa's grotto where Father Christmas received a rousing reception from the island's children.

The grotto was open, and was free, as Santa spoke to around 83 children, who all received a gift, as well as juice and crisps. In the 'wee church in the town', carol singers performed and many shops were open for late night shopping, serving festive food and drink. Children could also write a letter to Santa in the George Hotel and received sweets and treats. On Saturday 10 December, there was the jolly Santa dash with everyone in costume running to the marine station. The winner of the fun run was Adam Doig, aged 9, who even beat his uncle Jensen Newton, the famous Millport runner! On Saturday afternoon in a crowded DA Hall, everyone thoroughly enjoyed Hopscotch's pantomime 'Aladdin' with loads of kids, followed by a children's disco. On Sunday afternoon, there was a lovely Cumbrae Primary Christmas fayre in the DA Hall. With hot mince pies, shortbread, teas and coffees, there were loads of stalls including a tombola and raffle. There was also a Christmas carol quiz, and lots of games and competitions. A big thank you to everyone who worked hard all weekend making it a success.

Special mention goes to 14 year old Matthew Cape for the kids disco. A big thank you to Hopscotch for the panto, Lesley and Robert Cunningham for the juice and crisps at Santa's Grotto, and a massive thank you to Ken and Karen Mapes who supply all the gifts for the kids there. A collection was taken for the grotto and £81.20 was collected for the fireworks display at the annual illuminations weekend.

Thanks to Alan Cawley for the photos.