A community fund-raising group in Troon is bowing out after more than 40 years of support for one of Ayrshire's best-known charities.

Members of Troon Friends of the Ayrshire Hospice enjoyed a ‘farewell tea’ at Highgrove House Hotel as they joined up for a special send-off along with some of the hospice's  fund-raising team to look back on their legacy.

The group 's fund-raising efforts saw them take part in many activities, including teddy bears' picnics at Culzean Castle, coffee mornings, bridge competitions, speakers' events, bucket collections, fairs, fun Days, ladies'nights and more. 

Graeme Strawhorn, Ayrshire Hospice's assistant fund-raising manager, said: "Troon Friends are just one of these very special groups and we would like to say a massive thank you to all who have been involved over the last 40+ years for their amazing efforts and dedication to our cause.

"In that time, they raised over £1 million for Ayrshire Hospice and we’re very sad to see their fund-raising journey come to an end.

"But they leave behind a tremendous legacy of support which has contributed to the wonderful hospice we have today.

"Our Friends groups continue to play a crucial role in helping the hospice fundraise to continue to meet annual running costs of just under £8 million per year to continue our care and services throughout Ayrshire.

"Troon Friends were just one of over twenty fundraising groups formed in the late seventies and eighties to make the Hospice a reality in Ayrshire."

If you’d be interested in forming your own fund-raising group to help the hospice, please call 01292 288488.