COWDENBEATH celebrated “one of the biggest ever” galas on Saturday with thousands of people turning out for a fun day.

Families turned out in force and lined the streets to watch the parade before heading to the park to enjoy a day packed with events and attractions.

Alex Haddow, one of the gala committee members, said, “The whole of Cowdenbeath was absolutely mobbed.

“On the High Street you couldn’t see pavement in some places with the amount of people there!

“It was probably one of the biggest ones we’ve had and the majority of people thoroughly enjoyed it.

“It was a great day overall and one of the show folk said it was one of the best in Scotland. We’re not getting big-headed about it but it gives us a lift!” There was plenty of fun to keep people of all ages entertained, from the parade to shows to stalls from local community groups.

“The parade was great,” said Alex. “We had a big spider there from the theatre company this year which was exciting, it was huge! It’s the biggest number of floats we’ve had for a very long time.

“We also had the very popular Joe’s Band playing all the way down in the parade and then they played for another hour and a half in the park. A lot of people enjoyed watching the wrestling and there were also dance groups and the final of the primary school five-a-side tournament, which finished 1-0 to Foulford against St Bride’s.

“They’ve won it the last three years and they get to keep the trophy now!” Alex also made a point of praising the efforts of the gala committee and everybody who helped support the events, as well as the people who turned up.

“It’s all about the folk that volunteer, we have to take our hats off to them,” he said. “And we’d like to thank each and every one who supported their local gala. Without them behind us, there would be no gala. They’ve had a great time, spent their money and given to local groups.

“It’s a learning curve and we’ll always be looking for things to improve and take suggestions on board for next year.”