An annual village event has been reduced to a one-day event because of new licensing rules and poor attendance at dances, organisers said.
The Longside Gala, now in its 19th year, has traditionally involved a whole weekend of festivities.
But the event has been cut back to a single day programme of events on a trial basis.
Last night gala chairman Norman Smith said the organising committee had not ruled out bringing back a longer event in the future.
Mr Smith, who was re-elected as an independent councillor last week, said: “Longside Gala this year is on May 20. It’s being cut back to a one day event.
“The gala has been very successful but with changing licencing and marquee dances at the moment not getting the attendance it is not viable.
“This year’s event on the Saturday will have all the attractions as normal and will be a fun day for all.”
Attractions this year include the annual family disco at Longside Football club as well as a host of stalls. A five-a-side football tournament will be held in the morning, followed by the pet parade and crowning of the Longside Gala Princess at 1pm.
The popular duck race will go ahead as planned on Thursday, May 18 in the Cairngall Burn.
Mr Smith added: “This is a trial for this year and hopefully we can extend again in the future. We will have to meet after the event to evaluate and see how to go forward as the gala is vital to our village.
“Finally I ask the public to support this event and hopefully come on board to make future events happen.”
Last year local youth group and performing arts troupe Modo led the gala parade.
