Guides are behind the feelgood project to decorate their streets
THE cheerful bunting decorating a small Glasgow village hides a hundred stories and more.
Look closely at the colourful pendants adorning hedges, fences and lampposts around Westerton in the north of the city.
It is made up of fabric donated by members of the community, young and old, and has been lovingly stitched together by the village’s senior section Guides in a feelgood project which has got everyone talking.
It was the brainchild of Laura Cassidy, who is chairperson of Westerton Gala Day which takes place this Saturday.
“Westerton is a lovely village, but like all communities in Scotland, it has its ups and downs,” explains Laura.
“The last year has been difficult for some families and I thought having some new, cheerful bunting to decorate the place would brighten everyone up.”
She laughs: “I had no idea how big a project it would become.”
Laura asked for donations of fabric back in May – and was inundated with contributions over the next three months.
“We were overwhelmed by how much support we had, and the fabrics themselves tell a story about the people who live and work and visit here,” she smiles.
“The gala day brings people from all over Drumchapel, Bearsden and Westerton too.”
The bunting includes everything from old clothes and bedding to discarded school uniforms, curtains and even a tent.
‘‘ We were overwhelmed by how much support we had
There are bright pink napkins, little Paddington bears, an embroidered bicycle and some tartan – and even, laughs Laura, a flag of China.
“That’s one of my favourite pieces,” she smiles.
“No idea where it came from. My daughter Kali and I were walking down the street yesterday and she pointed up to the bunting because she recognised one of her old dance costumes!