SUNDAY saw the culmination of a year’s work for The Benarty Events Group with the Annual Benarty Community Gala at Lochore Meadows Country Park.

A fantastic crowd from all the Kingdom came to enjoy the day’s event.

“The Group have built the gala up over the last six years to the point that many people come to enjoy a great day with affordable if not free prices,” said Chairman Eddie Easson.

"Many obstacles have been put in front of BEG this year, including new tariff charges from Lochore Meadows Country Park and the way this has been handled. Also, the wanton vandalism on Friday night when all the portable loos were destroyed. This is when The Benarty Events Group showed their true colours.

"At no time was there any contemplation of the Gala being cancelled as was being reported on some social media posts. From 8 am on Saturday morning the group moved up a gear and got to work in securing more toilets. "With most suppliers closed it was looking grim, but local businessmen Ian Bruce, Keith McGregor and John McIntyre stepped up to the plate and pulled strings. Massive thanks goes to these guys; and thanks also goes to Scotloo in Perth for staying open for the group. The group would also like to take this opportunity to thank the staff at L.M.C.P. for the clean-up job after the fire".

Early showers didn’t take the shine off the day. The people came in their droves and the support the group received from the general public was fantastic.

Added Eddie: "A thing like an idiot fireraiser were not going to stop a great day happening for everyone.

"The Gala as usual kicked-off from the Benarty Centre at noon, with all conquering Lochgelly High School Pipe Band leading the parade as they always do. This year there were extra photographers and all pictures will be on The Benarty Events Group’s Facebook Page.

"Also in the parade, were seven floats, a total of three pipe bands and representation from The British Army and Royal Airforce. The veteran bikers were out in force, as were the classic cars.

“This year we made little tweaks to events on the field and they ended up fantastic choices.”

3,700 gala boxes were distributed on the field and the distribution went like clockwork. The extra giant wheely bins made a massive difference to the litter on the day. The fantastic volunteers with their litter pickers and bags got the rest.

Concluded Eddie: "For the first time we had the wrestling ring and wrestlers in place and their performances drew a big audience. It was hilarious when the children chased after the villain when he got thrown out of the ring!

"On stage we had The Superheroes. Again, it was a fantastic performance and had the kids enthralled to see their heroes. When they finished, to a standing ovation, they posed for pictures and spoke to the kids for a long time.

"This year we also had an Art & Photography Gallery. The Benarty Art Club exhibited their work. Also shown, were various photographs from the past to the present with a lot of people donating pictures and paintings.

"The climax of the show was the performance on stage by Little Mix Magic. They entertained the big crowd with a polished, professional performance.

"This year the Group were very disappointed not to receive any grants from the Cowdenbeath Area Committee. No proper explanation has been given for this, and neither has any reason been given for the new pricing schedule. In effect, The Benarty Events Group had to totally fund the Pipe Band Competition and Gala Day.

“The final cost of these two events will be in the region of £60,000. Our group works tirelessly through community fundraising to make these accessible for everyone. Sadly, it seems the harder you work the more you are penalised,

"There has been a lot of social media attacks on the group but The Benarty Events Group will not rise to any bait. The Group are proud of their transparency. Anyone can attend their meetings and view their accounts and procedures".

The Benarty Events Group again would like to thank all the many sponsors and volunteers that make these events possible. Without them there wouldn’t be any events. The group have a motto: TEAMWORK MAKES DREAMS WORK.

"Our sponsors and volunteers are all part of our team," concluded Eddie.