Blackford’s big week is packed with action
Final preparations are being made ahead of this year’s Blackford Gala Week.
This year’s jam-packed programme of events is due to run in the village from June 4-11 as part of a tradition which dates back to the late 1970s.
Blackford Parish Church will be the venue for a special all-age service from 11.30am on Sunday, June 4.
After refreshments, a community bike ride will leave the church from 2pm and see participants head out through the gwest grounds using the core path and the Gleneagles cycle path.
Basketball is to take place the following day on the all-weather court behind Allanwater Gardens, starting from 6.30pm for children and families and then from 7.30pm for teenagers or those slightly older wishing to shoot some hoops.
More exercise can be enjoyed on Tuesday, June 6, as a family games night – including rounders and football – takes place in the Highland Games field from 6.30pm.
A walking treasure hunt will see participants gather at Blackford Bowling Club from 6.30pm on Wednesday, June 7, and compete for the newly-created Willie Mclaren Trophy.
Explaining the poignant nod to the event’s history, a Blackford Gala Week spokesperson said: “Willie Mclaren, of Netherton Farm, was instrumental in establishing Blackford Gala.
“Willie sadly died in May, 2022, and we are delighted that his wife, Cathie, and other members of the family have supported the idea of a Willie Mclaren Trophy to mark his contribution to the Gala and to the village.
“This trophy will be awarded annually to the winner of the adult walking treasure hunt.
“Fittingly it is Willie’s son, William, as winner of last year’s event, who will set this year’s courses.