Forres Events Limited to host Grant Park 100 festival next summer to mark a century since the land was gifted to the community by Sir Alexander Grant
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THE COMMUNITY is invited to celebrate a century of access to its most beautiful park next summer.
Forres Events Ltd (FEL) – the company behind Piping At Forres, the European Pipe Band Championships from 2012 to 2018 – is organising a festival of family fun at Grant Park on Saturday, August 24, to commemorate 100 years since Forres man Sir Alexander Grant, inventor of the Digestive biscuit, gifted the land to the people of Forres.
Joanna Taylor, an FEL director, confirmed ‘Grant Park 100’ will feature arenas with demonstrations and competitions, have-a-go activities, as well as marquees with exhibitions, displays and trade stalls.
She said: “We’re excited to be bringing another important event to this stunning location. This show will celebrate its value to the community over the 100 years since it was gifted to the town.”
In 1922, Forres House and gardens were put up for sale and purchased by Forres Town Council for £5,000.
Sir Alexander Grant gifted money for the purchase, together with a further £1,000 for the laying out of a public park in 1924.
The Town Council recorded that Sir Alexander stated: “The community of Forres does not take advantage of the Cluny Hills as they ought… the beauty spot is now opened up by Sir Alexander’s great gift.”
Grant Park was developed in the 1920s after the acquisition.
The public area was initially Cluny Hill, divorced from the town by the private gardens of Forres House. After 1922, the public park was extended to meet Victoria Road. It has remained unchanged in its extent since that time.
In 1971, Forres House burned down and the remains were demolished. The site of the house is commemorated by a sunken garden designed by Alistair Sinclair.
Ms Taylor said: “Grant Park is enjoyed daily by so many people.
“With its 30 acres of wide-open grass and award-winning gardens, it is an essential part of the town.
“As is showcased every year by the Forres Highland Games and the Rotary Club of Forres’ fireworks display, Grant Park is the perfect venue for events.
“Supporting the community is not new for Forresians, but perhaps the one that has had the greatest and enduring impact on the town was made in 1924 when Alexander Grant gave the park to Forres, hence why it’s important to mark this significant milestone.”
Grant Park is also special to fellow FEL director Laurie Piper.
He said: “It was the first place I visited in Forres and the main thing that made me move here.
“However, the park means something different for everyone who lives, work, or visits our wonderful town. I’m looking forward to bringing a great event for all to enjoy next August.”
