Johnstone is set to get festive with a cast of Christmassy characters making their way to the town centre this weekend.

Bh This Saturday 27 November will see cheeky elves, giant nutcrackers, Christmas candles and more appear on the streets around Houstoun Square, spreading some seasonal cheer.

The giant characters – produced by arts company Bridgeman Arts – will be handing out tokens that can be exchanged in participating local businesses for special offers or discounts, giving residents a chance to sample the best local food or get a head start on their Christmas shopping.

The team from Johnstone Sound radio station will be in the Houstoun Square bandstand and there will be a selection of carnival rides on offer for the thrill-seekers in the family.

The festive fun event will be on from noon until 4pm. Our festive friends will be heading to Renfrew on Saturdays 4 and 18 December but you can catch them again in Johnstone on Saturday 11 December.

The events – organised by Renfrewshire Council – are taking place instead of the usual Christmas lights switch-on events. The lights in each town will be turned on separately.

They have been designed to encourage residents to spend local and support businesses in the area – research shows around 65p from every pound spent in the local area stays in the local area.

Pauline Allan, Renfrewshire Council’s events manager, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing festive fun to Johnstone and Renfrew over the next four Saturdays.

“There will be loads going on to keep the family entertained and the Christmas characters will make a stunning spectacle.

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“We are also delighted to be working with local businesses as part of the event – and our thanks go to all who have signed up to take part.”

To find out more and to see a list of the businesses taking part, visit: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/festive-fun

Locals and visitors will be able to collect one token from each character to be redeemed in participating local stores on the day of the event.