Thousands of people flocked to Turriff’s annual May Day celebrations – which organisers managed to turn around in just six weeks.
Turriff has hosted a massive event in its high street every year for the past three decades, and yesterday the streets were once more packed as the festivities got under way.
The extravaganza involved the town’s two pipe bands, traditional Highland dancing and a vintage car display.
VIDEO: Sturgeon and Whiteford show off their archery skills during visit to Turriff’s May Day event
Local charities, politicians and shops also got in on the act.
But almost none of it happened.
Dolina Mackenzie, who stepped in to organise this year’s event after stepping down four years ago, was only told six weeks ago that nothing was planned.
The celebration’s previous organiser had left the area suddenly, leaving May Day in jeopardy.
Despite this, Ms Mackenzie was able to convince a record number of stallholders to cram into Turriff and make the day special.
She said: “By the end of the day we had about 50 stalls. We’ve never had that many before, in my experience.
“I retired in 2014 after having run it for 11 years. Usually, I’d have a year to plan something but this year I’ve only had the six weeks.
“We didn’t have time to advertise to get someone else, so I came back. It’s a good, fun job and I’ve always enjoyed it. But it is hard work. We now have a year to find someone else to take it on.”
About 3,000 people attended last year’s landmark celebration and last night attendees said they believed the same number of people came out in support.
Bill Hepburn, who helps run events for the Turriff and District Pipe Band, branded the event “great” for the community.
“From our side, everything went perfect,” he added.
“We were really pleased with how it turned out, because we had a lot of youngsters out with us today and it was there first time out on the street playing.
“Everyone fair enjoyed themselves. The weather could have been warmer but that’s about it.”
