New Galloway community celebrates coronavirus restriction easing with weekend of fun

Community groups and volunteers in New Galloway celebrated the summer sun and easing of Covid restrictions with a weekend of community events.

Local Initiatives in New Galloway, together with the New Galloway Community Events Committee, New Galloway Community Enterprises and the Glenkens Community and Arts Trust, put on a jam-packed programme with something for everyone.

Friday was football and fun in the park, followed by a live screening of the Scotland v England match in the CatStrand, which was very much enjoyed by all.

Saturday and Sunday gave a chance to see exhibitions and the new community kitchen in New Galloway Town Hall and to try out a children’s treasure trail around New Galloway. A shuttle bus offered free transport to the Garroch Estate walled garden where wildlife watch sessions were on offer for children to do a bit of butterfly and bug spotting, and guided walks took families further afield in these beautiful surroundings.

The finale was on Sunday afternoon, when a Prosecco cream tea was provided in New Galloway park and people came to enjoy the sunshine and a chat.

People who went along said they particularly loved the chance to reconnect with friends and that it was brilliant to see the community coming back together again.

As if to emphasise the success of the weekend, New Galloway Town Hall clock was switched on and started to chime again after a long lockdown silence.

The organisers want to thank the funders, including New Galloway Community Council whose support allowed almost all the events to be offered for free.

It is hoped to have more community events as the year goes on.