It’s party time in Kirriemuir - and you're invited

On Saturday, May 30, ‘Celebrating Kirriemiur: Past, Present and Future’ will be a bold new initiative to bring life back to the town, particularly the town centre, and showcase to the residents and the wider community, what the ‘Wee Red Toon’ has to offer.

With planning for the day-long event starting in March, more than 20 local organisations and businesses have rallied round to provide their support. The idea arose from local traders and residents who were concerned at the impact on the town of a period of prolonged roadworks at the start of the year.

Catherine Marriott, one of the organisers, said: “The impetus for creating this event was that the Kirriemuir High Street, like high streets all over, was struggling but still functioning.

“Then unfortunately roadworks were necessary, and, even more unfortunately, they went on for longer than expected. As a result the centre of town was closed for nearly three months with a devastating impact.

“Some of us began talking about this and what we could do to help Kirriemuir. We came up with the idea of having what is basically a big party and inviting everyone to join in, not just retailers.”

The plan gathered momentum after an initial check around town to gauge interest in the idea of ‘Celebrating Kirriemuir’. When the idea was met with enthusiasm, organisation got underway in earnest just last month.

Catherine continued: “Some people were amazing and hugely enthusiastic from the word go and we have been amazed by their support and interest and help.

“Guild Homes gave us £500 right at the beginning, which was essential and gave us the confidence to go ahead as we had absolutely no money at all. The Kirriemuir Development Trust ‘adopted us’ so we then had a bank account and charity number which was also essential.

“And others have contributed in big and small ways as we have got going, so it seems likely that we will cover the costs which are primarily council licences, insurance, rentals and publicity.

"We were quite surprised by the lack of support from most of the bigger local businesses and greatly cheered by the local community's support - which is maybe as it should be as we imagined this to be a community event, showcasing and supporting the local community."

And the list of activities, which will run from 10am-4pm, is extensive.

These include historical re-enactment by the Knights of Monymusk; open doors sessions at the Sustainable Kirriemuir Community Garden, the fire station, St Anthony’s Church, Kirriemuir Meditation Centre, Kirrie Connections and the police museum; cooking demonstrations at Kirriemuir Food Hub and pony rides at Pathhead Equestrian Centre.

In addition, there will be free taster sessions and activities in the town hall, where there will be a range of market stalls. There will also be live music in the town square throughout the day. The culmination will be a parade, starting at 3pm.

Details can be found on the Celebrating Kirriemuir Facebook page.

Catherine continued: “We were equally surprised and delighted by the people who have just appeared and helped and contributed in such wonderful ways. Angus Council’s Vibrant Communities has been great at guiding us through the legalities and contacts to get permission to make things happen. And so many others.

"Everyone is invited to dress up however they want, if they want, and to take part in the parade at 3pm.”

As parking is at a premium, attendees are encouraged to walk, bus and taxi wherever possible.