AYR town centre’s flagship Christmas tree has been adopted by Ayrshire Hospice to help raise fund for the charity.

South Ayrshire Council has given the green light to the link-up for the Burns Statue Square tree as a festive boost for the hospice – and in particular its Light Up A Life appeal.

Councillor William Grant, business ambassador for the Ayrshire Hospice and South Ayrshire Council’s portfolio holder for children and young people, said: “The Ayrshire Hospice’s ‘Light up a Life’ appeal is a wonderful way to celebrate the lives of those who are no longer with us.

“I’m delighted that the council has been able to support this campaign

As part of this year’s Light up a Life appeal from Ayrshire Hospice, the council are enabling the charity to adopt their flagship tree in Burns Statue Square to help raise the profile and funds for the hospice.

Ron Swanson, the charity’s assistant fundraising manager, who visited the tree with Councillor William Grant from SAC, said: “The pandemic has been a difficult time for everyone and as we approach Christmas, which really can be a very poignant time of year, we hope that the South Ayrshire community will join with us to remember loved ones in a personal and positive way.” “We are truly grateful to Councillor Grant and South Ayrshire Council supporting our local charity in such a meaningful way and we are delighted that the tree at Burns Statue Square will be a treasured symbol for remembering loved ones this Christmas.”

Ayrshire Hospice is inviting the public to support their Light up a Life appeal and dedicate a star on a tree (online) in memory of someone special, regardless of a personal hospice connection.

Councillor William Grant, South Ayrshire Council’s portfolio holder for Children and Young People and business ambassador for the Ayrshire Hospice said: “During the festive period we tend to reflect on precious memories we’ve made with family and friends throughout the years, and it can, therefore, be a particularly difficult time for people who have lost loved ones. The Ayrshire Hospice’s ‘Light up a Life’ appeal is a wonderful way to celebrate the lives of those who are no longer with us.

“I’m delighted that the Council has been able to support this campaign, and I’m sure that the placement of this banner in such a prominent location as Burns Statue Square, will really help to raise awareness.”