MORE than 100 people from across Ayrshire flocked to Troon on Hogmanay for the popular annual beach dig, writes Stewart McConnell.

Run by Secret Santa organiser Campbell Malone, the event challenged children to find lolly sticks which could win them selection boxes and bikes.

Laura Gibson, who moves to Barassie from Kilmarnock later this month, attended the Troon beach event with daughter Breagh and friend Katie Barr and children Logan and Chloe said: “I’m loving this event and it was a great day for it. We found our lollipop sticks so the kids are all quite happy.”

Gillian Haughey from Troon, who attended with son Rory (8) and daughter Georgia (5) said: “It’s good for the children to get some company before going back to school and they gets lots of fresh air. The Secret Santa event is also a great thing for the town.”

Correy Gray (3) from Troon was lucky enough to win a bike in the beach dig.

Mum Amada Hannah said: “He was very good at digging and we’re absolutely delighted. He only had a wee bike before. Correy had a great time and really enjoyed it.”

Campbell Malone said: “This is the fifth year of the dig and we had a great turnout.

“Most of the 120 selection boxes were shifted. I was quite excited. It went really well. We had great feedback from people attending. Thanks to everyone for coming.”