Carnoustie is all set for a bumper Gala Week.
The new figurehead of the group that puts the extravaganza together has her sights set on making it better than ever.
Jen Taylor has stepped up to the role of gala committee chairwoman – because no one else would.
“I’ve been involved with the gala on and off for about 13 years,” said the well-known figure.
“But I haven’t been around it for about the past 10 years.
“I got asked if I would go on as chair and I did it because I didn’t want to see it fall.
“It’s such a big thing, and such a good thing for Carnoustie.”
Jen, a well-known figure in local theatre circles and community First Responder leader, said: “Not many places have galas like Carnoustie’s now.
“There are lots of community galas, but most don’t have a high street float parade. We very much wanted to keep that.”
But she admits it has been a steep learning curve for the nine-strong committee.
“It’s a huge amount of work but we are doing our best,” added Jen.
“We’ve got some new things for this year, both during gala week and on gala day. We want to keep that going.”
Expanded Carnoustie Gala Day
Gala Day itself has been extended to run from 11am in Carnoustie House grounds on Saturday July 5.
It means people will be able to enjoy the stalls and attractions there before taking in the float parade.
“We have the maximum number of lorries again this year, which is seven,” Jen added.
This year’s float theme is My Carnoustie.
The parade starts from Panmure Industrial Estate at 1pm and will arrive at the gala day around 1.45pm.
Other gala day attractions include:
- SWE wrestling
- Star Paws flyball display
- Dog show finals
- Evolution Dance
- Lorry pull
- Pipe band
- Bonnie babies, Mr Muscles, Miss Rosebud
Jen added: “We need more street marshals for the float parade.
“And we would love to hear from anyone who wants to join the committee.”
Gala Week programme
Monday June 30: 7.30pm – Gala dominoes, Royal British Legion.
7.30pm – Men’s darts, Corner Hotel.
Tuesday July 1: 7.30pm – Quiz night, Royal British Legion.
7.30pm – Gala dominoes, Station Hotel.
Wednesday July 2: 6.30pm – Sand and pavement art. Meet at leisure centre.
Thursday July 3: Putting all day. Register at Carnoustie Golf Links.
Friday July 4: 5-6pm – Teddy bears picnic, Carnoustie House grounds.
Saturday July 5: 11am to 5pm – Gala Day, Carnoustie House grounds.
Sunday July 6: 1pm – Petanque competition, Maule Street.
The full programme is available on Carnoustie Gala Committee CGC Facebook.
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