THE sun was high in the sky for Crossgates Gala on Saturday and the village came out in force

The streets were packed as the parade headed down from the Mines Rescue Station in beautiful weather.

The theme this year was 'The Environment' and there were all sorts of aspects of that on show and it featured the majorettes, pipe band, dancers, the village nursery and school, and also involved were local councillors and groups.

This year the parade had vintage cars and tractor pulling a trailer which all added to the occasion which was packed with excited youngsters.

There were 14 funfair attractions at the park, lots of stalls, a climbing frame, and a lot of activities for children, including races and features for all age groups.

Gala Queen, was Kirsten McKenzie and princesses were Sorcha Gordon and Layla Rinton, pupils of Crossgates Primary School, and they were raring to go in their Royal roles and had a lovely day. Thanks went to Mane who did their make-up plus there were also donations from the Chrystal Bar, the Premier shop, and ongoing support from Divitos and the Munch Box.

On the run up to the big day there were a number of events which attracted saw a lot of fun including a 1k fun run, a 5k race (won by Joshua), Kids 5-aside heats, a pet show and a quiz by the ‘Corner Crew,’ and there were various pet prizes.

Gala committee chairman, Ross Bennet, was delighted with the way the gala week went: “Saturday was cracking day, great weather, great parade, great afternoon, smiles all round.

"A huge thanks goes to everyone involved in arranging and running the gala and we hope that everyone really enjoyed themselves and will support preparations for next year.”