Ayrshire Does Strictly Raises More Than £15,000 for Killie Community

Seven talented locals and their professional dance partners dazzled on a fantastic night at The Park Hotel’s ballroom for Ayrshire Does Strictly 2026 on Saturday, October 3.

Raising over £15,000 for the Killie Community, it was a night full of fabulous glitz and glamour!

The familiar Ayrshire personalities impressed in front of a star-studded judging panel, joined by guest judge Jai McDowall, as they competed for the Glitterball Trophy.

Jai took to the stage for a special performance to entertain guests, before Killie Community’s Charity Manager Jordan Allison highlighted the vital work of the charity across the local area. As well as being treated to a fantastic showcase by the seven local personalties and professional dancers, more than 300 guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal at The Park Hotel and a full evening of entertainment.

The Judges

The judging panel was headed by Kevin Nicol (former International Open Finalist), who was joined by Tammy Harkin (Allstar Cheer & Dance Academy), Janis Sue Smith (fashion stylist and art director), Jai McDowall as guest judge.

The Contestants

• Martyn Hay and Kerry had the audience in upbeat mood as they performed the Samba.
• Gillian Brown and Nuno, smoothly performed the Cha Cha Cha.
• Victoria Johnstone Aiken and Pawel had everyone on their feet performing the Jive.
• Karen Gall and Mario commanded the room by performing a romantic Rumba.
• Scott Watson and Leanne, our Strictly winners, were performing Contemporary.
• Lesley Muir and Frederico set pulses racing with a Pasodoble.
• And Lynsey Campbell and Sami finished off in style with the Cha Cha Cha.

Hosted by Ali and Michael from Now Ayrshire Radio, Scott Watson lifted the Glitterball Trophy after competing with Lynsey Campbell in an intense yet enthralling dance off.

Recognition

Our thanks go to Regency Facilities Management, the main sponsors of the event, for its generous backing.

Special thanks to all who made the evening possible – including; The Park Hotel team and Gordon for their hospitality, Ali and Michael for hosting, Hair Spot and Beauty Spot Coylton for hair and make-up, the professional dancers and Dance4Passion, Santander, The Kilted DJ, Brian from Air Image Photography, Ayrshire Magazine for media and printing support and everyone who attended, donated or supported the event.

Jordan Allison, Head of Charity at the Killie Community, said: “The Killie Community is delighted to hear the total raised through Ayrshire Does Strictly this year. We are especially pleased by the outstanding fundraising efforts of each and every dancer, as well as some generous contributions made through the donation envelopes marked for our charity, providing a further boost to this year’s overall total.

“We are committed to opening up the Rugby Park Community Campus for as many young people as possible each and every school holiday. This year’s total means our charity can continue to provide this for the community.”

“Ayrshire Does Strictly is always a special evening, bringing people together for a fantastic cause,” Phyllis Carroll, director at Kilmarnock FC, said. “I cannot thank our dancers, professional partners, sponsors, staff and guests enough for their support. To have raised £15,826.19 already is a wonderful achievement, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed.”

The full photo gallery is available from Air Image Photography HERE.

Details for next year’s event will be announced in due course via the club’s website and social media channels. Donations are still being accepted to this year’s event, which can be accessed HERE.