A Perthshire town’s summer gala will return with a radical new look this weekend.
The traditional event at Coupar Angus has been overhauled with a music festival-style makeover, with a packed programme of live acts.
The gala, which will take place at the town’s Common on Sunday, was rescued after the previous year’s committee stood down.
And new organisers Jim Harris and Dundee-based music promoter Dougie Black hope it could lead to a revival of other gala events across the region.
Taxi operator Jim, who lives in the town, said: “We’ve taken the reins from the last gala committee after they retired.
“We were worried that if we didn’t agreed to take it on, it might be lost for good.”
He said: “We wanted to come back with something a bit different this year.
“Dougie has put together a great programme of live music, which will run alongside the traditional gala favourites.”
He said: “Things have been coming together really well and we’ll get on to the site to start preparing on Saturday.
“A lot of galas have fallen by the wayside in the recent years, which is a real shame. We are hoping that if we can make a success of it in Coupar Angus, other town and villages could be inspired to revive their own events.”
The free event has won support and sponsorship from several local businesses. “The feedback we’ve been getting has been great,” said Jim.
Dougie, from GJ Promotions, said: “We’re going for the wow factor this year.
“There will be a main stage on the Common with five bands performing and there will also be an acoustic stage in the beer tent.”
On the bill are Lefty and Friends, Sin City Blues, The Ally, the Un-Romantics.
A place has also been reserved for the winner of a battle of the bands competition.
Alongside the music, the usual gala attractions including a fun fair, car show, inflatables and stalls have been lined up.
Buses will also be running from Fat Sam’s in Dundee.
