THE Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra gave their 35th annual Christmas Concert to a packed Ayr Town Hall on December 16.

And they went back to the future by starting and finishing with the same pieces they played at their very first concert in December 1982 - at a slightly faster speed!

As well as their usual up tempo jigs, reels and seasonal festive music, they reprised a specially written composition by their former Musical Director, Alistair McCulloch - Spirit of Hope.

This was written in memory of the Orchestra’s founder member and percussionist David Hope and was given its first performance at a Charity Concert for Renal Cancer Research Fund in October supported by David’s former employer, aero construction company Spirit.

Such was the success of that Concert that David’s sister and Director of the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra, Kathleen Terras, was able to present a cheque for £3,250 to Christy Watson of Renal Cancer Research Fund.

The Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra are looking forward to a visit to Spain next July and is preparing for its next exciting International Concert Tour to Japan in July 2019. Rehearsals restart on Saturday, January 13, at Kingcase Church when any new players would be made most welcome.