Christmas may still be three months away - but that hasn't stopped one Helensburgh group getting into the festive season early at a party filled with "laughs and sparkle".

The Grey Matters Active Ageing group organised the event for Saturday, September 16 - and it was all inspired by a typo in the Advertiser.

We'd wrongly stated that the group's Christmas party would be held on September 16 - it should of course have been December.

Helensburgh Advertiser: Margaret HarperMargaret Harper (Image: Tom Watt)

Seeing an opportunity for a fun and quirky day, group members decided to throw a Christmas party in September – where they enjoyed mince pies, pulled crackers, were visited by Santa, and overall had a great laugh.

Group manager Alison Gildea said: "Now I will be honest, it only really happened thanks to the Helensburgh Advertiser!

Helensburgh Advertiser: Irene Crawford and Pat Donald Irene Crawford and Pat Donald (Image: Tom Watt)

“A wee typo one week listed our Christmas party as being held on September 16th and we thought ‘oh why not!’ and we went for it.

“We had a lovely morning with lots of laughs and sparkle.

Helensburgh Advertiser: Members took bookings for the Christmas lunch happening in DecemberMembers took bookings for the Christmas lunch happening in December (Image: Tom Watt)

“Lots of people really put in the effort and we hope we spread the fun by giving anyone walking past us that day in Helensburgh a laugh too.

“We even had a visit from Santa who is best friends with member Ken Baker."

Helensburgh Advertiser: Partygoers dressed in their best Christmas themed clothesPartygoers dressed in their best Christmas themed clothes (Image: Tom Watt)

During the party, the group also held a best jumper competition with the winner currently being decided on the Grey Matters Active Ageing Facebook page with the The Olde Christmas Shoppe for providing the grand prize.

Closer to the festive season, the group will be holding their Christmas lunches in Cardross Golf Course on Saturday, December 16 and Monday, December 18. (Ed's note: yes, we really do have the dates right this time.)

Helensburgh Advertiser: Committee member Barbara Warren with volunteers Margaret Ladd and Jaqueline FlemingCommittee member Barbara Warren with volunteers Margaret Ladd and Jaqueline Fleming (Image: Tom Watt)

Members Barbara and Margaret took bookings for the lunches during Saturday’s party with Alison issuing a huge thank you to the ladies for their efforts.

Grey Matters has also organised a panto trip, and mince pie party complete with an entertainer to add even more fun.