The organisers of a Kilmarnock Christmas experience have apologised after families encountered huge delays on the opening night of the event.
Starry Nights opened to the public on Friday evening in the town’s Dean Castle Country Park that promised a “truly unforgettable Christmas experience” and “a festive adventure that will warm your senses and glow up your Christmas spirit like never before.”
The festive walk-round experience features lasers, sound installations, fun fair rides and a food village.
But a number of festive revellers have been left unhappy at huge queues in the park and at Santa’s grotto.
Organisers said a child became unwell in the grotto on the opening night and a technical issue added to delays too.
However, attendees also report that they suffered huge delays last night (Saturday) too.
And a number of customers claim that they encountered delays of around two-and-a-half hours to get into Santa’s grotto for their pre-booked slot.
A post on the Starry Nights Facebook page read on Saturday: “We sincerely apologise to families affected this evening at Dean Castle by the delays experienced for Santa’s Grotto at Starry Nights.
“There was a technical issue that delayed the opening and unfortunately, a young child became unwell in one of the grottos at the start of the evening, meaning that we had to close the space down to allow the situation to be handled safely.
“Both issues were completely out of our control. Our primary concern was the safety and well-being of the unwell child, as well as all the other customers who experienced delays as a result.
“We appreciate that visiting Santa should be a special occasion. If you experienced delays that negatively impacted your visit, please email us at [email protected] to discuss this with us.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
This is the second year that Starry Nights has taken place at the Dean Castle Country Park. Starry Nights is also operating at Beecraig Country Park, Linlithgow, West Lothian.
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