Families and friends of Oatlands Pre-School were undeterred by the appalling weather on Saturday as they turned up in full force to the Oatlands Community Gala Fun Day. Visitors to the Gala were greeted by Cllr Cliff Trotter and Peppa Pig, who opened the proceedings, then enjoyed traditional fete games, such as the coconut shy, hoopla and hook-a-duck.
Despite having to re-locate the Gala from its planned outside location to Oatlands Pre-School at the last minute, the organisers were still able to put on most of the scheduled entertainment. Irish dancers from St Aelred’s dance troupe demonstrated their dancing skills and children enjoyed taking part in the ‘Flufts’ cuddly toy pet contest. Deputy Mayor Cllr Ian Galloway awarded prizes for ‘Most Loved Pet’, ‘Best Pampered Pet’ and ‘Most Exotic Pet’ to three delighted youngsters.
Alyson Duffy, Gala Co-Founder said:
Today has shown what a great community spirit there is in the Oatlands area of Harrogate. People have come out to support us in spite of the weather. All our supporters mucked in to move the Gala to its indoor location at short notice and we’ve all had a great time, raising over £2000, in the process!
The proceeds from the Gala will go towards redeveloping the former Oatlands Methodist Church, which houses Oatlands Pre-School. The old Church is currently being modernised for use as a local community centre, when the Pre-School children are not in session.
Vic Smith-Dunn, fellow Gala founder, added:
We would like to extend our thanks to all our sponsors, local businesses and helpers who contributed to yet another successful Gala. We could not have achieved such a fanastic result without their significant contribution!
The Gala organisers hope to hold an event on the Oatlands Playing Field in September to incorporate all the attractions that had to be cancelled on Saturday due to the weather. This event will feature a bouncy castle, giant slide, tours of emergency services’ vehicles and stalls held by local charities.
A date for this event will be announced shortly. They are now looking for volunteers to help at this event and at next year’s Gala.
Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Alyson Duffy at Oatlands Pre-School by email on info@oatlandspre-school.co.uk or by calling 01423 871846
