A GROUP of selfless staff from a charity's supported living scheme in Catrine raised thousands of pounds at the weekend for Ava Bolton.

The team organised a fundraising football match and evening of entertainment in New Cumnock on Saturday, June 10.

They did so to support Ava's family, who were devastated by the news that their daughter was been diagnosed stage 4 high risk neuroblastoma.

They are now looking to raise £250,000 to get treatment for three-year-old Ava in the United States.

When John Scott, a senior support worker at Catrine Bank services, heard about Ava's battle, he knew just how to help out.

The team at the East Ayrshire supported living scheme - operated by the National Autistic Society - comes together every year for a fundraising football match and social evening in a bid to raise funds for worth causes.

It was decided that this year, the event would be held in a bid to contribute towards the "Help for Ava" campaign.

With the help of John's colleagues Ryan Scott and Chris Young - support was given by the National Autistic Society to hold this year's charity game.

Another colleague, John Houston, organised - with the help of Glenafton Athletic - for the match to take place at Loch Park in New Cumnock with the night time events to take place at the adjacent Campbell Hall. Both facilities were provided free of charge.

And Saturday turned out to be a fantastic day of football fun - and quality night of entertainment with Brian Hunter - raising an amazing £2,604.75 for Ava. This total included an amazing £1,000 donation from  the local New Cumnock Community Council Windfarm Fund.

Ava was in attendance at the event alongside her parents Natalie and Scott Bolton, with the latter taking part in the match.

Speaking after the event, organiser John Scott shared his delight at a successful day's fundraising.

He commented: "Thanks to everyone that came along to our charity game and night out, hope you all had a great time.

"Massive thanks to Chris Young and all the guys that played and for helping to make such a success and to Brian Hunter who was amazing as usual with his singing.

"Also have to say a shout out to John Houston who helped us with arrange park and venue.

"Thanks to Scott Bolton and Natalie Bolton for bring the wee one along and brother, Lucas."

For more information on Ava's fundraiser, her gofundme page can be found at gofund.me/cf50aac4.