Loanhead Gala week replaced by activities at home

While the gala day itself has been provisionally moved to September 5, locals are asked to decorate their own homes with bunting for the period of gala week, June 12-21, to demonstrate solidarity as a community and help to lift everyone’s spirits.

Loanhead Gala Day Committee’s Alan McLaren said: “As June approaches we would normally be looking forward to our annual gala celebrations, which mean so much to so many people in Loanhead and which form such an important anchor point in our town’s annual calendar.

“To counter the cancellation of our usual programme, we have devised a special gala week for 2020 with ‘at home’ activities and virtual alternatives which seek to mirror the events of our normal gala week schedule.

“We hope you will enjoy taking part in some or all of the activities, that they will help to lift spirits and remind us that the current very difficult times will eventually pass.

“The current crisis has certainly reminded us all of the importance of community and the people of Loanhead have once more demonstrated the strength and resilience of our community with so many acts of kindness and support to our neighbours.”

Instead of the popular carnival parade on June 12, locals are encouraged to dress up at home and post photos on the gala day’s Facebook page.

Families are also encouraged to take part in the June 14 fun run by running in their garden or at the local park as part of their daily exercise, with medals given to children.

It is hoped the bowls event the same day will go ahead at the town’s two bowling greens, with lawn bowls expected to be permitted by then by the Scottish Government.

Instead of the usual open air concert at Fountain Green, the gala day committee is calling on all musicians in Loanhead to entertain their neighbours with open air performances at your front door or in your garden between 7pm and 8pm on June 17. No need to enter or book a slot, but contact the Gala Day Facebook page to let people know what is happening in your street and post your photos.

The Tea Dance is a highlight of the gala week for many senior citizens. On June 18, people are invited to prepare one or more individual afternoon tea plates or a small selection of sandwiches, scones and cakes and deliver these to neighbours who are elderly, or who are key workers, or just to anyone close to you who you think might need cheering up.

Locals are also being encouraged to participate from home in other popular gala events including the teddy bears picnic.

And while Alan had been intending to lead another local history walk following its introduction last year, he will instead provide a short written guide drawing attention to points of interest to allow you to undertake the walk at a time of your own choosing. Anyone wishing to receive a copy should contact Alan on 0131 440 3830 or by email [email protected].