The Main Street attraction

Coatbridge will host its big summer day out this Saturday – as the town’s Festival takes over the Main Street.

The free event, taking place from 11am, will include a huge range of family attractions including a climbing wall, bungee run, bouncy castle, trampoline, soft play boxing, soft play, balloon making and face painting.

Also on offer will be a variety of on-stage entertainment, plus stalls highlighting the activities of local organisations.

It is being sponsored by Coatbridge community forum and further supported by organisations including Town Centre Activities, North Lanarkshire Council and NHS Lanarkshire.

Gordon Encinias, of organisers Coatbridge community forum, said: “We’re looking forward to this year’s festival, and all attractions and facilities are free for everyone as always.”

Among the stalls at the Festival will be Coatbridge citizens’advice bureau, who will be highlighting the dangers of scams, and how to beat them, as part of the nationwide scams awareness month.

Bureau manager Marian Tobin said:“This is one of the most important campaigns we run. Scams are very common and can affect absolutely anyone – and they can cost people hundreds or even thousands of pounds.

“Our message is that you need to be vigilant and watch out for scams, and there are some easy steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. But we also want people to know that help is available, and that if you are a victim you should report it so we can try and stop it hurting others.”

Turn to pages 8 & 9 for extensive coverage of Airdrie fair day.