Ayrshire Does Strictly raises record-breaking £43,000 for Killie Community

EIGHT well-known local personalities and their professional dance partners dazzled a packed ballroom at The Park Hotel throughout an evening of glitz and glamour which raised a record-breaking £43,167 for Killie Community on Saturday, 28th September.

Former Kilmarnock player Tom Callaghan engrossed a star-studded judging panel headed by former champion Highland Dancer Eilidh McMillan, but it was another familiar Ayrshire face who won the coveted glitterball trophy.

The evening burst into song with an opening set from special guest host Michelle McManus, before Kilmarnock FC’s Charity Manager, Jordan Allison, kicked off proceedings by highlighting the Killie Community’s vital role within Ayrshire.

Bringing the dancefloor to life, a mesmerising routine from the unmissable cast of professionals, accompanied by 2023 winner, Kilmarnock FC Hospitality Manager Emma Wyper, wowed more than 300 guests in the Caprington Suite. Attendees were treated to a delicious three-course meal and an exclusive dance lesson from the professionals of Dance 4 Passion, while this year’s contestants shook off nerves backstage ahead of the main event.

Eilidh McMillan then headed the judges table accompanied by Tammy Harkin of Allstar Cheer & Dance Academy, Fashion Stylist, Janis Sue Smith, art director of numerous music videos, and renowned psychic, Frank Pilkington.

Opening this year’s competition in glamourous style, Linda Galli was first up on the evening alongside partner Craig. There was no stopping the chocolatier from Renaldo’s in Ayr who took on the Jive to Queen’s classic Don’t Stop Me Now.

Former Killie star Tom Callaghan was next up as he got the hearts racing with Leanne, the pair also took on the Jive to the tune of Runaround Sue by Dion.

Next up was Killie-daft mortgage advisor Erin Murray who carried out the Viennese Waltz with Pawel.

Toni Dawson of Geraldo’s in Largs then entertained with her partner Daniel as they impressed with a Samba to Sergio Mendes’ Mas Que Nada.

Sasha Blaze raised the bar alongside Sami, conquering a Musical Showdance with a breathtaking performance of It’s Raining Men that left the panel almost speechless – it was enough for a perfect 40 out of 40 from the four judges who awarded 10s all round.

Then it was Ali Wright, who was one half of ‘Ali & Michael in the Morning’ on West FM. Ali and her partner took on the Tango with Frederico – with another incredible full-score dance from the judges.

It was Lesley Henderson’s My Way next as her Rumba with Nuno went down well as Frank Sinatra’s My Way bellowed out.

Then to finish off the dances, Alister Neil’s Cha Cha Cha with Maria ended the proceedings strong to She’s A Lady.

Ali was crowned ‘Queen of the Night’ after a dance-off with Sasha – with a clean sweep for the radio whizz.

Kilmarnock FC’S Managing Director, Phyllis Carroll, concluded the competition by sending a final thanks to dancers, guests and event sponsors – Regency Facilities Management – who all played a starring role in raising substantial funds for the club’s charity.

Following floor-filling classics from Michelle McManus, the Kilted DJ took over the party which left guests practicing their new dance moves long into the night. You can take a look at some highlights of the evening – HERE.

Anyone wishing to purchase images from the night, can do so by visiting the Airimage online gallery – HERE

Thanks for the dancers for their hard work and fundraising, as well as the Park Hotel, Dance 4 Passion, Santander, The Kilted DJ, Air Image and Michelle McManus.

Ayrshire Does Strictly 2025 will take place at the Park Hotel on Saturday 27th September. With the line-up still to be confirmed, you won’t want to miss it. Book now by contacting Hospitality@kilmarnockfc.co.uk