The much-anticipated grand reopening of Craigtoun Park near St Andrews takes place this weekend and organisers hope this is just the beginning of a bright future for the much-loved facility.
The special event tomorrow and Sunday postponed from Easter due to a washout marks the start of the school holiday period when the Friends of Craigtoun group will be running the amenities in the park on a seven days a week basis.
The Friends Group was formed in 2011 as a sub committee of St Andrews Community Council.
The group has now moved on to become a company limited by guarantee and that company is hoping to obtain charitable status in the near future.
Friends chairman Kyffin Roberts said:”The Friends are grateful for the support and encouragement received from Fife Council and local companies in making it possible to bring Craigtoun Park back to being a vibrant attraction in St Andrews that offers fun days out for all the family.
“The number of people using the park has increased steadily since Easter as the word spreads that Craigtoun Park is “ back in business” but the truth is that the park never closed.”
Fife Council depute provost Councillor Kay Morrison will officially reopen the park at 11am tomorrow.
She said: “Thanks to everybody who’s striven so hard to bring this about, to the point where the Friends can work in partnership with Fife Council to maintain this lovely park.”
The weekend programme includes: Saturday stage Billy Anderson, Fygo Combo, and Steamers Lane (all bands).
Sunday stage Billy Anderson, City of St Andrews Pipe Band, Lucy Harrower (singer) and Laurie and Cameron band. Also Sun. Roger the Dodger (Marquee).
Craft, business and exhibition stalls (both days). Static displays (both days) Police, Fire, Coastguard and RAF.
All the park facilities will be running.
Parks team leader Iain Barbour said: “Given the excellent partnership model we’ve developed with the Friends, we’re hopeful there’s a long-term future for the park.”