AN AYRSHIRE Christmas fair is returning to raise money for the Crosshouse Children's Fund.

The Crosshouse Children’s Fund’s Christmas fair, set to take place on November 17, promises to be 'the perfect way to kick off the holiday season'.

With more than 50 stalls, a Santa's Grotto, live entertainment, and activities for all ages, it is expected to be a lively start to the festivities.

Rebekah McGinn, fund-raising manager at the charity, said: "Children can tell Santa what is on their wish list, meet our friendly alpacas, explore Kilmarnock Fire Station fire engine, and say hello to some familiar faces including Star Wars characters and Frozen’s very own Olaf."

Last year's fair was a success, attracting more than 2,000 visitors and raising more than £8,500 for babies and children in hospitals across Ayrshire and Arran.

Entry to this year's event is £3 per person, with free entry for children under eight.

All proceeds will go to the Crosshouse Children's Fund, supporting hospitalised children in Ayrshire.

It will run from 10am to 4pm next month at The Park Hotel in Kilmarnock.

The charity has already invested more than £430,000 in 'life-changing' projects.

However, with 25,000 babies, children and young people requiring hospital treatment in Ayrshire each year, there is still much work to be done.

The money raised helps bring the latest medical equipment to Ayrshire, assists families in navigating the pressures of their child's journey, and helps children cope in hospital.

For more information, visit the Crosshouse Children's Fund website here.