THE Carrick Centre welcomed locals last week to take part in a day of festive cheer as the Centre's first Sensory Santa event took place.

Sensory Santa is a special activity put on for children with additional needs and requirement for quieter and more accessible play activities.

Andrea Hutchison, manager at the Carrick Centre said: “ What a fantastic day we had. In the morning, the café was overflowing with children desperate to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes.

"Whilst the parents relaxed and enjoyed a coffee, the boys and girls ate their breakfast rolls followed by cookies and looked through their gifts from Santa.

“In the afternoon, Sensory Santa had its annual family Christmas Party - an opportunity for children with a need for quieter more accessible play and visit with Santa.

“Set up in 2017, through PAR Funding, Carrick Sensory offers weekly play sessions and monthly family sessions for children with barriers to learning and development.

“Offering a wide variety of activities throughout the year, Sensory Santa was the missing piece to the puzzle.

“Once again, Olaf joined us to play with the snow trays, iced water tank and polar circle, while Santa chilled in the grotto allowing the children to come and go as they pleased.

“Great fun was had by all and, to top it all off, Maybole Youth Choir CCTV came along to sing carols.”