A KILWINNING woman who has dedicated 60 years to voluntary work will be turning on the town’s Christmas lights this year.

Betty Kilpatrick, 90, is thrilled that Promoting Kilwinning have chosen her to make the big switch on at the event on Saturday, November 19.

The pensioner was a volunteer for the Red Cross between 1962 and 2012 where she carried out first aid and nursing work.

Betty set up a cadet unit for children aged 11 to 16 years and taught them first aid  took the cadets to Switzerland as well as taking adults and children with disabilities on trips to Blackpool. 

She was a school auxiliary at the Abbey Primary School and many people remember her from her time at the school. 

As well as that, Betty has been truly dedicated to her town volunteering at the Abbey Tower, acting as a Sunday school teacher at the Love Hall for the Erskine Church (which she has attended since she was five-and-a-half years old) and being involved in the KitKat Club and Corsehill Retired Club.

And her service has not went unnoticed after being honoured with the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.

Betty thanked everyone who took part in nominating her for the switch-on, saying simply: “I am delighted to be switching on the lights, thank you very much.”

Preparations are well underway for the big event throughout the Main Street.

Santa will be in his grotto from 2pm with entertainment, stalls and fairground rides open from 3.30pm.

The switch-on itself will take place at around 5.30pm.

There is still time for entertainers to get in touch to apply for a spot on stage. Stall application forms are still available. 

Volunteers are also needed to help steward the event, help with fundraising and planning the event.

For more information, contact Joe Broussard, via email joe@broussard.co.uk or calling 01294 552284.