The allsorts float, featuring kids from Carstairs Pre-5 Group, received huge cheers from the large Gala crowds.

"There is always a great atmosphere at Carstairs Gala," Gala Committee member Gayle Scott - whose son Harris dressed as an allsorts sweetie - told the Gazette.

"I was impressed with the allsorts. They had worked hard on the float since the start of the year.

"Whether it is raining or the sun is shining, everyone turns out to see the Gala Day. The village green crowning ceremony was definitely the highlight of the day."

Eleven-year-old Carstairs Primary pupil Alex Rae was crowned 2008 Gala Queen.

"I was impressed with Alex's outfit," Gayle said. "She really enjoyed her day.

"Everyone in the Gala Court was well turned out. The parents bought and supplied the girls dresses and everyone was nice and elegant."

Rain throughout Saturday failed to dampen gala goers' spirits.

"It was a dry day with showers!" Gayle joked.

"But we got a dry spell for the crowning ceremony, so it worked out well."

Gala crowds were able to enjoy free cakes, teas, sausage rolls and pies. Additional entertainment on the village green included bouncy castles, slideshows, a lively performance by singer Gerry Kay...and an appearance by some live falcons.

"Gerry gave a very good performance," Gayle said. "He was doing a general mix of pop songs, including Neil Diamond.

"And I was definitely impressed by the falcons. It's great seeing that kind of wildlife up close.

"Last year I got a picture taken of me wearing gloves and holding a Harris Hawk. I specifically wanted to do that because my son is called Harris."

On what was a hugely successful day, Gayle had only two disappointments.

She said: "After the crowning, it started raining and everyone went back to their houses. However, they did re-appear when the sun came out.

"And we only had the one float this year. I'd like to increase that to two floats, or a maximum of three, next year."

Gayle praised the hard-working gala committee members for their sterling efforts throughout the year.

"Our president John Forrest has done a great job," she said. "On behalf of the committee, I thank him."

Gayle also thanked gala secretary Nanette Melvin for her efforts in getting the group 'Beats of Brazil', from Whitburn, to perform on Gala Day.

Pictures of the fancy dress featured in our slideshow are by Gazette photographer Lindsay Addison.

They can be purchased for just £5 from our offices on 01555 678792 or 772802.

Pictures of the gala day were taken by freelance photographer Andrew Wilson.

They can be purchased for £5 for a 6x4 image, £8.22 for a 7x5 image or £10.57 for a 9x6 image.

Additional pictures of the gala day are also featured on Andrew's website at www.awpstockpictures.com

To order Andrew's pictuers, visit the website or call 01899 220300.