Killie Surprise Brings Festive Joy to Young Fan Grayson

Kilmarnock players Rory McKenzie and Greg Kiltie helped create a Christmas moment to remember for nine-year-old Grayson Smith during a special visit to Ayrshire Cancer Support’s Ayr Centre.

Grayson, a lifelong Killie supporter, has recently completed treatment for cancer and is now in remission. He was visiting the centre to meet Santa when the surprise appearance of the two players added an extra layer of excitement to an already emotional day. Grayson and his family were overwhelmed by the visit, which underlined the power of football to lift spirits and bring communities together.

The visit forms part of Kilmarnock’s ongoing commitment to working closely with local charities and community partners, helping to raise awareness of vital services and support available across Ayrshire.

Gregg McEwan, General Manager of Kilmarnock FC, said. “Moments like this remind us that our role in the community goes far beyond football. Working alongside partners such as Ayrshire Cancer Support allows us to use the club’s profile to make a genuine difference, particularly for young people and families facing incredibly challenging circumstances. We are proud to support the outstanding work they do every day across Ayrshire.”

Director of Care Services at Ayrshire Cancer Support, Craig Blackwood, highlighted the importance of the club’s involvement. “We really value the partnership that we have with Kilmarnock FC. Having the players at our Ayr Centre made an already exciting experience to see Santa even more special for Grayson and his family.”

Craig added. “We’ve had such a positive experience with the club and have previously delivered mascot experiences together. They’ve been hugely supportive of local people who access our services, and they work closely with our fundraising team on a variety of initiatives to raise awareness and vital funds.”

Ayrshire Cancer Support provides essential services, free of charge, to people affected by cancer and their families across Ayrshire. Support is available to people of any age, any cancer type, and at any stage of the cancer journey, all delivered in non-clinical, welcoming environments.

From warm, accessible drop-in centres to essential patient transport, the charity’s specialist team delivers a wide range of one-to-one and group support services for children, young people, and adults.

During 2024/25, Ayrshire Cancer Support delivered.
• 18,000 patient transport journeys
• 1,500 complementary therapy appointments
• 1,350 counselling appointments
• 1,650 supported drop-in sessions
• 1,500 attendances at groups and workshops
• 91% of children and young people under 25 reporting they were better able to cope with stress and anxiety

As the only organisation in Ayrshire dedicated to providing specialist cancer care and support at every stage of the journey, Ayrshire Cancer Support relies entirely on donations and fundraising. The charity receives no statutory funding, making its achievements a direct reflection of the generosity and compassion of the Ayrshire community.

Kilmarnock FC is proud to stand alongside Ayrshire Cancer Support and to continue working with partners who make such a meaningful difference to the lives of local people.