RENFREW is set to get festive with a cast of Christmas characters making their way to the town centre this weekend.

Cheeky elves, giant nutcrackers, Christmas candles and more will appear on the streets on Saturday, spreading some seasonal cheer.

The giant characters – produced by arts company Bridgeman Arts - will be handing out tokens that can be exchanged in participating local businesses for special offers or discounts, giving residents a chance to sample the best local food or get a head start on their Christmas shopping.

The team from Paisley FM radio station will be broadcasting live from the town and there will be pop up performances throughout the day from Renfrew Burgh Band.

The festive fun event will be on from noon until 4pm. The festive friends will then visit Johnstone on Saturday, December 11 and return to Renfrew on Saturday, December 18.

The events – organised by Renfrewshire Council – are taking place instead of the usual Christmas lights switch-on events, with the lights in each town to be turned on separately.

They have been designed to encourage residents to spend local and support businesses in the area – research shows around 65p from every pound spent in the local area stays in the local area.

Pauline Allan, Renfrewshire Council’s events manager, said: “It was great to see people out spending time with families and friends in Johnstone last weekend and we can’t wait to bring Festive Fun to Renfrew.

“We are delighted to be working with local businesses as part of the event – and our thanks go to all who have signed up.”

To find out more and to see a list of the businesses taking part, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/festive-fun.

Locals and visitors will be able to collect one token from each character to be redeemed in participating local stores on the day of the event.