Kirn Gala, for many local residents, is the ideal lead-in to Cowal Games weekend - lots of the fun, slightly less noise and bustle, and with a real community feel. Not too far from Dunoon. Last night's (Wednesday) event was no exception - and even the sun made a welcome appearance after a worryingly rainy start to the week.

The evening featured the very best of local talent - ably kept under control by the ever-green and ever-popular master of ceremonies, Alex Pollock, assisted by Eric Ruthven MBE and a host of helpful stagehands.
The pipes and drums of Dunoon Grammar School gave locals and tourists alike a taste of things to come, and set the stage for the talented twirling of Argyll Majorettes.

Cowal is fortunate enough at the moment to have several talented young musicians to choose from, and Megan Strapp - Dunoon's own wee girl with a big voice - didn't let the crowds down with a soulful selection, including a fantastic Lady GaGa cover.

Cowal Pipe Band made a welcome appearance to the delight of the crowd - the community has really got behind these relative newcomers to the local pipe band scene, resplendent in their new uniforms ahead of their first competitive appearance at the Games.

Other entertainment highlights included the Tina Cairns Dancers (warming up for the competition), the amazing sounds of Kirk James and the Gaelic Walking Song Group.
Away from the main stage, there were plenty of stalls to browse, many run by local groups and charities. And for kids of all shapes, sizes and ages, there were fairground rides, bouncy castles, candy floss, face painting and a real fire engine to try out.

Kirn Parish Church offered a quiet haven with Coffee and Cake in the Crypt - a chance to catch up with old friends over a cuppa and some cracking home baking.

Community spirit is most definitely alive and well in Kirn, and year on year the well-supported gala is testament to that. Organised by a committee of volunteers, it's a great example of what can be done when some determined people put their minds to it. The hardworking volunteers deserve credit for their perseverance and determination to provide a real fun, family event for the whole community - long may that spirit continue. Many will already be looking forward to Kirn Gala next year!

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