Parents worried about the cost of sending their kids back to school next month will find help at a special event in Auchinleck.

East Ayrshire Council's children and family services are hosting a free event in the Boswell Centre on Thursday, August 10.

It will offer free school clothing and accessories, as well as other services such as Helping Hands, for other clothing items and household goods.

And thanks to two local hairdressers, kids will be able to get free school haircuts before the new term begins.

Other helpful services will also be available on the day.

They include the Release mental health charity, East Ayrshire Council's Recover hub and addiction services, Step employability, to assist with employment training CVs and benefits information, Home Energy Scotland to provide advice and guidance and Child Smile dental advice.

As previously reported in the Chronicle, a donation box has been set up at the Boswell Centre for residents to donate items of school uniform suitable for re-use.

The box is available for donations of items until August 4.

The August 10 event will run from 10am to 2pm.