Published: Tuesday, 29th June, 2010 8:51am

Crowds flock to Kelty gala

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crowds packed the streets of Kelty on saturday to cheer on its traditional gala parade in brilliant sunshine.

The event was hailed a great success and Loch councillor Alex Rowley thanked all those involved with the organisation of the Kelty and Benarty galas held at the weekend. He said, "I would want to thank publicly all those who work so hard all year round to make these events happen.

"We had thousands on the streets of Kelty on Saturday for a fun packed precision and day in the park and then on Sunday the Benarty gala proved to be one of the best for many years.

This is all down to hard work and organisation by people dedicated to helping their local community and they should be commended for such good work".

Among the highlights was the Scottish Coal Carrying Championship - a gruelling 1000 metre course of sheer agony which once again attracted heavyweight competitors from far and wide.

See page 22 for more on the coal race.

The gala festivities got under way proper with the traditional parade through the centre of the village.

The colourful procession of youngsters, mums and dads, organisations, vehicles and local councillors and other VIPs was led by Kelty Pipe Band and included other bands, dance troups, fire engines and a monster truck.

The parade wound up at the park in Bath Street where bands performed live on the stage.

There was also a battle re-enactment group, a climbing wall, pony rides, bouncy castle and fairground rides.

Other highlights included an animal corner with ferret and terrier racing and a rabbit tent.