Ayrshire Does Strictly Shines Bright for Killie Community

Seven well-known local personalities and their professional dance partners dazzled a packed ballroom at The Park Hotel on Saturday, 27th September, raising over £30,000 for Killie Community during an unforgettable evening of glitz and glamour.

The familiar faces impressed a star-studded judging panel led by professional dancer Ian Waite, aiming to find out who ultimately claimed the coveted Glitterball Trophy.

The night kicked off in spectacular style with a musical performance from special guest host Edward Reid, before Killie Community’s Charity Manager Jordan Allison highlighted the vital work of Killie Community across Ayrshire.

Guests were treated to a dazzling showcase from the professional dancers, joined by 2024 winner Ali Wright and previous champions June Ferguson, Melissa Pellegrini, Emma Wyper and Phyllis Carroll. More than 300 guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal and an exclusive dance lesson from Strictly Come Dancing’s Ian Waite, as this year’s contestants prepared to take to the floor.

The Judges

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

The Contestants

• Scott Montgomery opened the competition with partner Maria, setting the tone for the night with a stylish Rumba.
• Emma Fullerton, a dental nurse at Haus of Dentistry in Prestwick, got hearts racing as she and Pawel performed an energetic Jive.
• Hairdresser Paula Mason swapped scissors for sequins, dancing a lively Samba with Nuno, one half of Scotland’s Dance4Passion duo.
• Radio presenter Michael Smith – one half of Ali & Michael in the Morning on Now Ayrshire Radio – took on the Cha Cha with professional partner Leanne, aiming to outshine his co-host and last year’s top scorer, Ali.
• Nicola McCutcheon, a Charge Nurse at Crosshouse Hospital, swapped scrubs for sparkle as she performed a Ballroom routine with Frederico, co-leader of Dance4Passion.
• Lifelong Killie supporter and Killie Trust Director James Morrison proudly represented the club alongside partner Kerry, dancing the Cha Cha.
• Rhianna Bell, owner of Clinic 22, wowed the crowd with a fun-filled Charleston alongside Craig – and was crowned ‘Queen of the Night’ by the judges.

A Night to Remember

Kilmarnock FC Managing Director Phyllis Carroll closed the show by thanking all dancers, guests, and event sponsors – Regency Facilities Management – for helping to raise vital funds for Killie Community.

Anyone wishing to purchase images from the night, can do so by visiting Kevin Wyllie LMPA’s online gallery – HERE

Special thanks to all who made the evening possible – including the dancers, The Park Hotel, Dance4Passion, Santander, The Kilted DJ, KSG Photography, and Edward Reid.

Save the Date

Ayrshire Does Strictly 2026 returns to The Park Hotel on Saturday, October 3rd. With the line-up still to be confirmed, you won’t want to miss it. To book your place, contact Hospitality@kilmarnockfc.co.uk