The future of Laurencekirk gala is hanging in the balance after no new volunteers came forward at the organisers’ AGM.
This followed the confirmation that the current committee members are stepping down due to other commitments.
The retiring committee is holding an emergency EGM on Sunday, February 28 from 7.15pm at the Masonic Hall in the hope that other people in the community will come forward to save the event.
The committee is looking to fill the roles of chair, vice-chair, secretary and treasurer.
On the group’s website, current chairman, Keith Moar, said: “It’s a real shame given the number of people who enjoyed the events we held in 2015 and that a number of good causes benefitted from a total of £2,500 as a result of our successful year.”
Committee secretary, Kirstie Moar, added: “We’re holding the EGM to see if anyone else will step up to the mark.
“It’s disappointing to know it may come to an end, because the gala week was hugely successful and I know a lot of people enjoyed the event.
“We had great attendance and really good feedback so I feel it is going to be a great shame if the gala comes to an end this way.”
“The thing is that the people stepping down are not doing that because they don’t enjoy it – they just physically don’t have the time any longer, but we have all said we would happily stay on as volunteers.”
Vice-chair, Claire Hunter, said: “Being a member of the committee has been an extremely rewarding role and has given me a real sense of giving back to the community.
“The highlight is definitely seeing all your hard work come together as people enjoy the gala week. The feedback of positive comments is also satisfying and gives you a great sense of pride and accomplishment.
“To those thinking of taking on a role, I’d say that although the work load may seem daunting at first, it is achievable.
“I would firmly second Kirstie’s comments that to lose the gala would be a great shame and a disappointing moment for all those who have been involved with it.”