Strong response to first ‘democratic’ gala

Crowle Gala Organisers Paul Vernum (l) and Ron Stewart are getting ready for the launch of the first ever Crowle Gala in June. Picture: Andrew Roe

The event involves all sections of the community with activities and competitions for all ages. But it has no central venue and takes place over two days in venues across the town.

Crowle’s deputy mayor Ron Stewart was supported by the town council in arranging the gala after the idea was floated by a local resident. The town used to have a carnival but the last one took place over five years ago, and was not on the same scale as this year’s project.

The town council said it would stump up £500 to help get the gala running, and the same amount has been offered by developers of the nearby wind farm.

Mr Stewart said: “Response has been very encouraging. The idea is to get different groups to take on elements of the organisation themselves - the whole thing is a very democratic process. There is culture, sport, arts, music and a great deal of fun to be enjoyed by everyone. The only appeal I would make is for people to come and support it on June 21 and 22. The results of various competitions will be announced at a presentation ceremony the following Saturday.”

Visitors that weekend can expect craft demonstrations, five-a-side football plus family sports at Windsor Park with games and competitions for mums, dads and youngsters, stalls, displays, rollaball and stocks and sponge-throwing in the market place, art exhibitions, concerts, a treasure hunt at Ealand Park, White Hart beer festival, a heritage trail walk, a baking competition, and several events to prepare for in advance. These include a primary writing challenge, that will be judged by a panel of children’s authors, with five entries from each of Crowle’s primary schools to be shown at an exhibition.

Inventive ideas are sought for scarecrow and dressed wheelbarrow competitions that have been organised by Crowle Allotment Society.

Concerts will include one with Scunthorpe Co-op Junior Choir on June 20 with entry by programme at St Owald’s Church, three acts at the Methodist Chapel on Saturday evening, priced £5 to include refreshments, and Cool and Country at Ealand Victory Hall on Sunday night, with pie and peas thrown in.

The fire brigade, LIVES first responders and community groups will all host displays on Saturday at Market Place.

And a car boot sale will be held in St Norbert’s School grounds from 10am to 2pm. Call 01724 710249 for details.

Posters and leaflets are to be distributed throughout the area in a bid to get as many people along as possible.