It’s Gala Day in Blantyre so we need a fitting post today. The annual children’s gala day hosted by Blantyre Co-operative Society (Ltd.) was held on Saturday 31st July 1917. The weather was ideal for such event and war in Europe did not hamper attendance to any great extent. Close on 7000 people most of […]
The crowd walk down to the Public Park on Blantyre Gala Day, 1980. Do you recognise any of these local people?
Staying with 1980 for now, let’s go to Saturday 23rd August that year and specifically to the David Livingstone Centre Grounds. Kids were out with their families enjoying the sunshine. It was the Miners Welfare Gala Day and royal queen that year was Anna-Marie Rouse. Comedian, Mr. Abie performs the crowning. Do you recognise anybody? […]
This is what Gala Days are all about! Happy kids having fun. This group of youngsters were spotted beside the road at Blantyre Gala Day in 1980, almost 40 years ago. Playing up for the camera, wonder if you can spot anybody you recognise? Featuring Blantyre Project Social Media with permission. Strictly not for use by others […]
The most regal of Gala floats at the Blantyre Gala 1980, belonged to the town’s ‘Little Queen’ Alison Pohler. Alison is seen here with her “royal court” travelling along the procession route on her way to the gala at Stonefield Public Park. Featuring Blantyre Project Social Media with permission. Strictly not for use by others on or […]
Here’s another great photo from the Gala day in 1980. These youngsters from Springwells certainly made a nostalgic sight by dressing up as miners. This float from the Springwells Tenant’s Association brought back many memories, especially for older people, of Blantyre mining past.
Some wonderful photos next of busy David Livingstone Grounds during one summer in the late 1930’s. The Livingstone Memorial was busy that day, as were the grounds with many hundreds of people coming along for some summer fun. Groups of people huddle around the seats under the large trees sitting in the shade. Shuttle Row […]
In December 1978, Gala Civic Week Chairperson, Charles Neill took to the press to report the apathy that had been creeping in towards the organisation of the Blantyre Gala days. He stated Blantyre people would have to give their full support and provide volunteers if the Gala was to continue in 1979. Mr Neill, […]