Saltcoats family raise funds for Cafe at the Station

The Boyd family raised nearly £450 this year as they looked to get behind Cafe at the Station and their Christmas initiative.

The Vernon Street eatery will open its doors on Christmas day and offer a free meal to those who would otherwise be spending it alone.

READ MORE: Cafe at the Station open doors to those alone at Christmas

Inspired by this, the Boyd family looked to see what they could do to offer a helping hand to the cafe.

During the year, they saved up their Nectar points - earned from the Sainsbury's supermarket - and used these to purchase some Christmas goodies.

The hamper the Boyd family put together. (Image: Submitted)

The treats were stored in a hamper, which was later used as a raffle prize to raise funds for Cafe at the Station.

Katie Boyd, one of the main organisers, explained to the Herald why the family decided to help the business.

She said: "Due to spending each Christmas for the last 23 years with around 15 family members, we think what the cafe does is amazing - it means less people are alone at Christmas and it allows people to celebrate with others.

"I think it makes a huge difference as nobody deserves to be alone at Christmas and it can be such a hard time for people who might not have family or friends around them.

"Myself and my family always enjoy doing this. We have done it for three years now and are happy we can make a bit of a difference and support local businesses."

A total of £448 was raised through the raffle this year, which Katie handed over to cafe owner Susan Barbour earlier this month.

Katie added: "We were super pleased with this and couldn’t believe everyone’s generosity, especially at Christmas time. The cafe staff are always so grateful for this donation.

"I would love to thank everyone who supports us doing our raffle each year. It really does make a difference.

"I always love to thank the staff at the Cafe at the station for doing what they do. They really do make people's Christmas so special."