It’s full steam ahead for canal festival

Last year’s festival was blessed with great weather and crowds flocked to Southbank Marina, Peel Park and the town centre to take sample the many attractions and events on offer.

This year the fun begins on Monday, August 18, with a series of canal cruises throughout the week, culminating over the weekend of August 23 and 24, with the Gala Sunday sure to be particularly popular around the marina.

Organised by East Dunbartonshire Council and the Leisure and Culture Trust, highlights include a series of special boat trips from August 18-22, face-painting and pirate costume parties at local libraries and a photobooth to record memories of the festival, Commonwealth Games and Queen’s Baton Relay.

Council Leader Rhondda Geekie said: “It’s full steam ahead for this year’s festival, which has a packed programme of entertainment, activities, sports and culture for people of all ages.

“Kirkintilloch Canal Festival is a firm favourite with local residents and visitors from far and wide - attracting thousands of people to East Dunbartonshire and helping to deliver a massive boost to the local economy.

“I hope as many people as possible come along and join in the fun.”

East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust chairman Scott Hill added: “The Commonwealth Games might be over, but the warmth and feeling of community they inspired is still very much evident and this festival is a great way to continue what has been a great summer.”

Katie Hughes, director of estates and commerce at Scottish Canals, said: “Scottish Canals are proud to be part of an event which celebrates the past, present and future of this town.

“We want to create houseboat communities to encourage more people to live, work and play along the waterway.”

To book tickets for boat trips visit www.kirkintillochcanalfestival.org or call 0300 123 4510.