Findhorn Village Fair weekend organised by Residents Association deemed great success
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HUNDREDS turned out for three days of fun in a local village.
Organisers Findhorn Residents’ Association (FRA) were delighted with the turnout on the weekend of the Findhorn Village Fair which they deemed “a great success”.
FRA chairman, Sam Russell, said: “It was fabulous to see so many people turning out to support the Findhorn Village Fair and the return of the Tombola.
“The fair is our main fundraising event of the year, enabling us to improve the village environment while supporting local groups and good causes. Proceeds cover expenses such as grass cutting, floral displays, Christmas lights, repairs to the play park and public liability insurance.
“We are grateful to everyone who came along and thank you to the many local businesses who donated raffle prizes, and to the volunteers who gave a huge amount of time and effort to make the 2023 Fair and Tombola such a success.”
After an absence of four years, the Tombola returned to the James Milne Institute on the Friday evening. FRA committee member and Tombola organiser, Morag Robertson, confirmed a great time was had at the hall.
She said: “Around 60 people of all ages attended, helping to raise the princely sum of £401.50.”
On the Saturday evening, around 70 people danced to live music from Chameleon at a ceilidh organised by Findhorn Coastal Rowers.
Hundreds more villagers and visitors turned out for the fair itself on the afternoon of Sunday, July 23. With rain affecting the surrounding area, the organisers were relieved that the village remained dry and sunny.
There was entertainment for all ages, including live music from members of the Forres Accordion and Fiddle Club.
In addition to a raffle and wheel of fortune, there were numerous stalls, a barbecue and afternoon teas provided by Findhorn Women’s Institute.
A plant stall was particularly popular, and another highlight was the ‘Made in Findhorn’ stall which sold products crafted in the village.
Mrs Robertson organised activities for children.
She said: “ It was lovely to see so many taking part in the book character-themed fancy dress parade and activities in the children’s marquee.
“The Mad Hatters of Moray judged a child dressed as the Owl from The Gruffalo to be the winner of the best costume competition. The children also enjoyed face painting, glitter tattoos, story time and a drawing competition.”
Harris Norman (4) from Forres, won a prize for his drawing of super villain/hero, Elbowman.
His mum, Laura, said: “It was such a lovely afternoon. Harris and his sister Eilidh particularly enjoyed having their faces painted in the children’s marquee.”
A steady stream of visitors visited Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation (MIRO) boat, The Glynn Whitehead III, docked on the pontoon at the North pier.
Crew member, Steve Leslie, said: “We ask young people what they would do if they saw someone in difficulty on the water - I was surprised at the number of youngsters who said they would phone 911! In the UK, if you see someone in difficulty on the water, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
A total of 46 people took advantage of the free activity ‘Give it a go - coastal rowing’.
Captain of Findhorn Coastal Rowers, Claire Weller, said: “Our two skiffs in the water made sure everyone who wanted a row got one so this was our busiest ‘give it a go’ day ever! We all had a lovely day.”
The Findhorn Residents Association meets regularly in the James Milne Institute in Findhorn. Anyone wishing to attend is welcome.Call Mr Russell on 07740763136 for more information.
