A winner with the community
Bothwell lines up best-ever festival
Shirley Bartynek
The Bothwell community are gearing up to host their most successful Scarecrow Festival to date.
Last year’s event saw over 450 scarecrows displayed and 30 events, but this year organisers are convinced that 2018 will be the biggest and best.
The festival will run from September 8-16, and there will be a number of new events and activities.
Jo Mulholland, one of the organisers behind the festival, said: “We are not just building scarecrows, we are building a community.
“For anyone who hasn’t visited us before, Bothwell Scarecrow Festival truly is a community event which welcomes visitors by the thousands. Residents all pull together, with many new friendships being forged with our neighbourly but highly competitive Super Scarecrow Street.
“Without all taking part, the festival simply wouldn’t exist.
“More scarecrows each year is the key to its success. The imagination some people have hold no bounds.
“There is always a headline grabbing scarecrow and I expect this year will be no different.
“We t r y and ha v e entertainment to suit all ages and all tastes along with showcasing all that is good about Bothwell.”
The festival kicks off with a football tournament on the sports weekend but if that’s not your thing there is a bowls or tennis taster, 5k or 10k fun run, two cycle rides -a family one or a group ride into Glasgow.
A firm favourite is the comedy night which always sells out, so the organisers have sorted a second gig.
There will also be The South Lanarkshire Big Band, an Abba Tribute, Kids’ Party Night, Scarecrow Hunt, storytelling, messaround and that is all before the main fun weekend.
Jo added: “The art exhibition is inspirational and the farmers’ market is always popular, with the craft fair also across the road. The community garden is welcoming with a chance to buy some Bothwell Honey.
“There’s the shows at the school for some excitement or enjoy a beer at The Camphill pop- up bar during our new Musicfest initiative. Lots of new attractions await, and loads of free indoor fun for the kids.
“The gala concert is not to be missed and a glass of wine afterwards brings the festival to a fitting end. All the local groups add a variety of elements to make it a truly unique festival.
“Generous contributions from local businesses and traders make this festival possible and our growing numbers in our committee make it happen.”