A brave young Mauchline girl living with cancer has received the support of a Scotland football star as her fundraiser reaches half-way.
Ava Bolton was diagnosed with stage 4 high risk neuroblastoma, with her family and the community aiming to raise £250,000 to send Ava to America for a new vaccination treatment, once her current 18-month treatment cycle is complete.
After launching the plea to raise the money for Ava back in April, Ava's parents, Scott and Natalie, along with the massive help of the wider community, have incredibly managed to pass the half-way mark.
READ MORE: Mauchline parents' plea after Ava's heartbreaking cancer news
Ava's appeal got support from a special guest at the weekend, as Scotland midfielder, and Ardrossan native, Billy Gilmour stepped in to lend a hand.
A team, that includes Ava's Auntie Ashley Moore, named the 'SAVA life' squad were out raising money and awareness for the youngster at the Ardrossan Highland Games.
The 22-year-old Brighton and Hove Albion footballer stopped by for a photo and chat with the team, as he helped encourage people to come and hear about Ava's story.
Ashley, from Saltcoats, was delighted that Billy made time for the team, and was grateful for all the support from the weekend and over the course of Ava's battle so far.
"It's amazing how so many people have come together," Ashley said.
"We've had numerous events that have helped to raise these vital funds for Ava so far, it's been absolutely incredible.
READ MORE: Catrine charity workers raise thousands for Ava Bolton
"Having someone like Billy Gilmour come and support your cause is a dream because he's got such a big reach and he's obviously very popular down our way.
"As a family we can't thank everyone enough for all that they have been doing to help Ava.
"We still have loads of events coming up and ways we're hoping to keep pushing and reach the target we need to get to."
Young Ava is currently six months into an 18-month treatment plan to tackle the disease.
With around a year to go of Ava's current treatment, parents Scott and Natalie remain optimistic about the chances of raising the funds.
Ashely added: "We're going to keep doing everything we can and we're going to keep as positive as we can.
"Again, we're so thankful and we just hope we can keep pushing on now".
You can support Scott and Natalie's funding for Ava online at: https://bit.ly/scottnatalieandava.
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