SHOPS across East Renfrewshire are using their windows to bring Christmas spirit to life.

The Christmas Spirit Trail is the brainchild of business improvement organisations All About Barrhead and I Love Clarkston.

They have teamed up to create an interactive story trail that is designed to encourage children to get active and have fun, as well as taking their minds off the coronavirus pandemic.

A number of town centre shops in Barrhead and Clarkston are taking part by displaying a ‘Christmas spirit’ character in their window.

Each character has a QR (quick response) code which, when scanned, rewards you with a festive story.

Andy Dunlop, of All About Barrhead, said: “The Christmas Spirit Trail revolves around a magical story that includes Albert Claus – the less famous brother of Father Christmas.

“His job is to maintain the spirit of Christmas by spreading joy bubbles on Christmas Day...but he’s gone missing.

“By visiting the trail stops and speaking to each of the cheerful spirits of Christmas, players will learn what has happened to Albert.

“When you scan each unique QR code, the character will burst to life through an animation on your smartphone and you’ll learn their name and gather clues.

“Participants will then be able to solve the mystery, save Albert and read the conclusion, thanks to a free ebook at the end."

Barrhead businesses that are taking part include McCabe Opticians, Bickets, Scott’s Stores, The New Yorker, MacKinlay & Suttie Solicitors, Include Me 2 Club, F&M Hairdressing, Harpers Salon, Barrhead Foundry and L’Arco.

In Clarkston, the trail is available at Gifted, Cafe Roma, Subway, Swanson Sports, Scott’s, Anytime Fitness, à bientôt, Living For Style, JPR Bathrooms and Creature Comforts.

Andy added. “We will be continuing with the Christmas Trail, despite East Renfrewshire going into tier four of lockdown.

“Some of the shops will be closed but the QR code will be positioned in the front window.

“There are separate trails in Barrhead and Clarkston, so you only need to complete one to get the full story.”

To find out more, visit HERE.