COMMUNITY power beat the fireraisers to ensure the 2019 Benarty Gala Day went ahead despite a Friday night attack from vandals who set fire to the portable toilets brought in to cater for the thousands of people expected for the big day on Sunday.

Gala organisers, Benarty Events Group, were stunned when news filtered through that the toilet facilities at Lochore Meadows Country Park had been torched.

Events group chairman, Eddie Easson, said that wile it was a sickening blow there was a determination among everyone that the show had to go on.

He commented: "At no time was there any contemplation of the Gala being cancelled as was reported in some social media posts.

"From 8am 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.

"We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the staff at Lochore Meadows Country Park for the clean-up job after the fire."

Thanks to the work of the intrepid trio the Gala Parade started on schedule and the sun came out for the event.

Former councillor Willie Clarke said: "A true victory for the community over those irresponsible people who set fire to the toilet block.

"People came together and the situation showed the immense strength of the Benarty community and it was excellent to see the youngsters enjoy a great day at the Meedies."