GREEN-FINGERED volunteers are bringing their own flower power to ensure the town's attractiveness doesn't suffer through council cut backs.

Community groups have come to the rescue of the flowerbeds in both Millport and Largs, rallying local support to ensure the towns remain in full bloom.

A total of £250,000 was slashed from the council's maintenance budget last year, leaving little funding for re-planting and upkeep of the flowers.

However Largs Community Council and Cumbrae Beecology group have stepped in to ensure that the communities does not suffer.

The two groups have now taken it upon themselves to plant flowers and maintain the beds.

Community Council chair Anne Carson said: "We knew about the cutbacks and just thought we would do our bit to help out.

"As volunteers we took the decision to plant the small garden opposite Homemount House as this was one of the areas which was affected by the cuts.

"Several people living close by came to help and have volunteered to keep it weeded and tidy.

"It really does show the fantastic community spirit we have in the town.

"North Ayrshire Council donated most of the plants and flowers and some others were donated by Largs Community Garden.

"A local shop also got behind us as they knew how much it would benefit the community.

"They gave us a generous discount and also offered to provide woodchip to cover the plot and suppress weeds."

Last year North Ayrshire Council encouraged community groups to get in touch with Streetscene if they would be willing to take on the maintenance of flowers or planters.

Since then Millport's Beecology group have also taken on their own community pots, which are placed along Newton prom.

The group have also been ensuring that wild flower beds are maintained on the island.

Volunteer and community councillor Lisa Christie said: "Members of the public and community have been very generous in supporting our efforts by giving monetary donations and new plants, for which we are very grateful.

"The council have also been very supportive and are giving us more plants this week."