Gargunnock Gala Day

Saturday June 21^st 2008

The Gala day parade took place on a warm and dry afternoon this year, a change from recent times. The parade was led again by the Balaklava Pipes and Drums, a magnificent spectacle to see as they proceeded up the Main Street. The royal car followed, containing Amy Bruce, the Gala Queen and Benjamin Rowley, the Laird of Gargunnock. Following on was a host of children and adults in a variety of fancy dress. In addition we had a decorated float category and these also processed up the Main Street, some harder to push than others. The theme for the Gala this year, chosen by the school children, was “characters from your favourite novel” and the ideas were wonderful to see. The crowning ceremony took place in the park and was followed by the judging of the fancy dress competition. The judge this year was Helen Scott of Meiklewood, her task was near impossible with so many wonderful costumes.

Events continued throughout the afternoon with side stalls from the village Playgroup and Toddlers, the School Parent Network Council, the Old Folk’s Welfare committee, the Youth Group and the Football club. Added to these were the tombolas, raffle and tea tent. The afternoon entertainment also involved haggis hurling, welly boot throwing and the very popular space hopper derby.

Later in the afternoon, the attention turned to the annual BBQ, held this year on the evening of the Gala. Unfortunately by that time the rain had started and not so many people as had been hoped stayed on to brave the weather. Those who did however enjoyed the food, drink and chat. Many also tried out the Bungee Run and took part in the annual tug o war competition, won by Charles Street. The evening was rounded off with the draw of the raffle for prizes such as a pamper treatment from Kesara Therapies, vouchers for The Gargunnock Inn and Village Shop. The Treasure Hunt winner was Hugh Bonnar, his prize was £100 and the winning square was P9.

The Gala committee would like to acknowledge the support of the many people who contributed in a variety of ways to making the Gala happen. We could not do it without you.