Dundee’s attempt to regain the piggyback world record was defeated by the weather as Sunday’s chilly conditions meant not enough people were around to take part in the fun race.
Although the crowds turned out in force for WestFest’s Big Sunday on Magdalen Green, the number of people available to take part when the race began was simply not enough and organisers had to concede defeat.
The 220 people who took part enjoyed their participation, however, and there were smiles all round at the end of the race.
Over the day about 4,000 people attended the festival, and chairwoman Paola McClure was delighted with the turnout.
”It was a fabulous day, really lovely. The rain stayed away and although it was quite cold everybody had a great time.
”The bands were brilliant, you wouldn’t find such a great line-up at a free festival in many places, so a big thank you to all the acts, they were superb.
”It was a shame that we couldn’t bring the world record back to Dundee but the weather beat us.
”Congratulations to the Americans though, it just shows how difficult it is to get that many people to take part in these events.”
Craft stalls, food outlets, a beer tent and vintage vehicle display also entertained the crowds. The acts playing were Mad Parrots Ceilidh Band, Syann Gilroy, Boston Tea Party, Jimi Hendrix Re-Experienced, Hazey Janes, Anderson McGinty Webster Ward and Fisher and Revolver.
Westfest continues all week with various events including exhibitions at Wasps Meadow Mill, Roseangle Gallery and Dundee Rep, and a talk by cartoonist David Sutherland on his 50 years as illustrator for the Bash Street Kids.
The Vine is also hosting film nights while Lorraine Wilson, author of Take It To The Bridge, talks about her book on the Dundee music scene.
West End councillors Richard McCready and Fraser Macpherson both congratulated the organisers of WestFest and urged people to join in the many events taking place this week.
Mr McCready said: ”I was really pleased to be at Big Sunday event on Magdalen Green. It was good to see so many people having a good time on the Green.
”I took part in the world record attempt for the biggest piggyback race along with my daughter. It was great fun, even if it looks like the record hasn’t been broken.”
Mr Macpherson said the event had been a ”superb success” .
”Hundreds of people were on Magdalen Green this afternoon and it highlighted the huge community spirit in the west end.”
The festival concludes next weekend. See more at westfest.webuda.com