Excitement builds for Gala Day fun

On July 14, Cumbernauld town centre will take on a carnival atmosphere as hard working Cumbernauld Community Forum unleashes the fun at at 11am sharp.

The group had singlehandedly revived the formula of a town-wide gala day which enlivened Cumbernauld’s social scene for decades but had fallen into disuse.

CCF chairman Billy Lees said: “This is our third gala day which we hope will be bigger and better than the last - and we hope that the community will come along and enjoy themselves.’’

Its trademark parade will snake its way from Fleming House to Tryst Road via Central Way, in a colourful cavalcade - which draws annual crowds of thousands from Cumbernauld and beyond.

As a bonus, the event has also raised thousands for local charities in the process. New Town Hall and the Link Centre are also used as back-up venues for the event.

As we have reported, this year’s royal party has been selected from Cumbernauld High School. The Gala Queen, Heather MacQueen will be crowned by last year’s monarch Sophie Hinshelwood. Heather will be ably attended by her two princesses Jenna-Beth McBride and Heather Perrie.

This event will be officially opened by Gregg McClymont MP - who will also perform the ‘coronation’ itself.Live music, sporting displays, face painting and all the usual attractions will be out in force - and more information on the action packed programme will be appearing in an upcoming edition of this newspaper.

Some stalls are still available for any local groups. For further information contact John King on 733572.