ONE of the biggest dates in Dunfermline's calendar is back with a virtual twist!

Dunfermline Children's Gala was cancelled in March but as a pledge not to be beaten by COVID-19, a 'virtual' gala is to be held instead on June 27.

The plan is to encourage the families of Dunfermline, Townhill and Rosyth to recreate the Gala Day feeling from the comfort of their own home.

The committee is suggesting families:

Decorate their front garden or window with bunting a couple of days before.

Dress up.

Have a picnic in their living room or garden.

Organise traditional races.

Create their own afternoon entertainment – dancing, karaoke, assault course, games, etc.

Share photos with everyone on the Gala Facebook or Twitter pages or email them for the Gala to share.

Gary Love, chairperson of the Dunfermline Children's Gala, said: "Clearly, the gala is a huge part of the Dunfermline calendar and there was real disappointment that we could not do it.

"We tried to think about doing a simpler version in August but that increasingly became apparent that it was going to be too difficult.

"We wanted to mark the day in some sort of way and we thought the best way to do that was through a virtual gala.

"COVID-19 or not, it's an important day for us!

"We have had a gala since 1902 and, while it will not be the same as meeting in person, we believe that the next best thing is to come together on a virtual basis to celebrate the day, have fun and enjoy ourselves."

The committee has been working with Police Scotland to work out the best way to celebrate while adhering to the Scottish Government’s guidelines on social distancing and keeping safe during the COVID-19 crisis.

The theme will be 'Gala-ing through the Lockdown' and is not too specific so everyone can join in.

The committee is keen to hear from you about how they can make the day special for children as well as engagement from schools.

Gary added: "We're hoping that the day will start off with a traditional pipe band and that our patron, Provost Jim Leishman, will give us a few words.

"It's right though that people make sure they follow the safety guidelines.

"We're already quite looking forward to it and what was going to be a disappointing day can be turned around. That's really exciting.

"It's been a really difficult time for everybody and even with the worries ahead we hope everyone can come together for the day."