Kilwinning’s young people came out in force at the weekend to secure over £3500 for community projects in the town.

Around 50 residents gathered at Ayrshire College in Kilwinning on Saturday (2 July) to hear 9 local youth groups make their bid for funding on what is fast becoming known as ‘Decision Day’.

A maximum of £450 was available for each participant and 24 youngsters were successful in their bid for funding.

The event marks the first of six Young Persons Participatory Budgeting pilot events entirely dedicated to young people. The pilot will see a ‘Decision Day’ event take place in each of North Ayrshire’s localities - the next event is set for Monday 25 July 2016 in Ardeer Community Centre, Shore Road, Stevenston.

Participatory Budgeting (PB) is recognised internationally as way for communities to decide how to spend small amounts of the public monies and is already helping 1,500 localities around the world achieve their aspirations.

Speaking about the event, Council Leader Willie Gibson said: “I’m delighted that so many of Kilwinning’s young people got involved in our Participatory Budgeting event. The PB concept is not only hugely beneficial, it’s also a lot of fun for everyone taking part.

“We hope they all enjoyed themselves and we look forward to hearing about how they use this funding to really make a difference in their community.”