Quartet of carol singers are aiming to spread some festive cheer around the area

The friends - inspired by old movies - are set to hit the streets and high notes to create an atmosphere of seasonal goodwill in Inverclyde.

Ashley Smith, Julie McKellar, Lynette Beaton and Taylor McGibbon, who met through the local drama scene, decided to put their experience to good use.

Ashley, 31, who works at Aileymill Nursery, said: "We were inspired by watching old Christmas musicals.

"We're using the motto from Elf: 'the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear'.

"We are looking for as many people as possible to come along and join us."

Ashley was joined by some sing-a-long volunteers from the Beacon who will be joining the group for a festive fanfare, including Elaine Fitzharris, Amanda Carlin and Jennifer Love.

The carol singers will be belting out favourites as Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town and Slade's Merry Christmas Everybody."

Ashley said: "We have a mixture of old and newer songs.

"I love Christmas.

"This year we are doing it for fun but if it's a success and we do it next year, we'll do it for charity."

The group begin their carousing at the Town Hall in Clyde Square at 6.15pm on December 17 then its onto the Custom House at 7pm.

They will hold a singing session halfway along the Esplanade at 7.45pm and round off at Gourock Pierhead Garden, across from the railway station, at 8.30pm.

NOTE: Little girl is Emily Barnes and Ashley is wearing a leather jacket.