THE future of the Alva Glen Illuminations is looking brighter thanks to a financial boost.

Alva Glen Heritage Trust (AGHT), which organises the event, has received a £2000 grant from the EDF Energy Renewables (EDF ER) Burnfoot Hill Community Fund.

It will allow the group to go ahead with the celebrations this year, which have been set for September.

Chair of the group, Claire Templeton, said: "Alva Glen Heritage Trust is absolutely delighted to be a recipient of this grant.

"AGHT has been going through some difficult times recently and this award will provide much needed support to allow us to continue with our work.

"In particular it will provide support for the Alva Glen Illuminations which is such a popular event for Alva and the local community.

"The volunteers who work so hard for AGHT are ready to make this year's illuminations a special one thanks to this award."

Records show the illuminations festival dates back to 1937 and, after falling by the wayside, the biennial event was re-established in 2004.

The glen is festooned with a variety of lights, and visitors enjoy not only the light display, but also live entertainment and food.

Unfortunately, the event was cancelled in 2016 due to logistical issues, but this year the event will take place on Saturday, September 16.

This grant puts the event on a more secure footing and will allow the trust to purchase new lighting units and equipment; as well as training and support to the volunteers who support the event.

Nick Bradford, head of asset management at EDF Energy Renewables, said: "We are pleased the money from the Burnfoot Hill wind farm fund will be bringing back this exciting event and hope the people of Alva enjoy it."

Other beneficiaries in this latest funding round worth £11K included Dollar Bowling Club, Tillicoultry Allotment Association, Tillicoultry Golf Club and both Menstrie and Alva Community Councils.