Burgh gala and lights night on the rocks

AN emergency meeting will take place in a fortnight in a last ditch bid to save Lochmaben Children’s Gala and Christmas lights.

A dire turnout at the group’s recent AGM, combined with five current members stepping down, has caused a crisis.

And unless more people come forward then neither the popular summer or festive event will go ahead in future.

They urgently need a new chairperson to head up the organising committee, as well as more general members.

As such, a meeting will take place on October 8 in the King’s Arms to determine if there’s enough interest to continue.

Names are also being taken of those who want to help but cannot attend the meeting.

Appealing to burgh residents to get on board, former chairman Stephen Cartwright said: “People of Lochmaben, the gala can’t end like this.

“As an ex chairman, I can only say this was one of the best most fun and rewarding things I have ever had the pleasure of being part of.

“It really doesn’t take up much time, maybe a couple of hours a week at the busy times.

“Most importantly, can you imagine the disappointment on the kids’ faces when you have to tell them Lochmaben Gala is cancelled.

“Come on, step up, even if it’s only for one year. Your gala needs you!”