‘IF you want your kids to have a children’s gala, then step forward and save it’.

That’s the message from Kelty’s committee as they fear the village tradition that has run for more than a century could come to an end.

Just five members turned up to their AGM last Monday and the secretary is worried that next summer’s fun day, due to take place on June 29, could be cancelled.

Marie Penman, who has served as secretary for two years, said: "If we fail to get any new members we will have to seriously consider cancelling the gala for 2019, which is a huge blow for the whole community as the gala has been running for over 100 years.

“Having five members for the village, which is growing all the time, is unsustainable.

“A lot of people said this year’s gala was the best in years, but I don’t think people realise just how much work goes into making it a success.

“It wouldn’t be fair on the kids if there wasn’t a gala for them to look forward to. They shouldn’t be punished.”

Marie said any form of volunteering is appreciated from helping with fundraising events through the year to manning stalls on the gala day itself.

“There’s a lot of work involved in organising the gala,” she continued. “One of our current members doesn’t even live in the village anymore but she still steps up.

“She had lived in Kelty all her life and now even after moving away, she stayed on the committee because she wanted to see the gala continue.

“It can be frustrating to not see other people come forward to help.

"It would take a lot of pressure off the five of us.

“We don’t stop once the gala is over, we have to start planning the next one.

"You have to book the acts, pay for them, make donations and complete so much paperwork.

“Everything costs money and that’s why it’s so important to have fundraisers and help with them would be really appreciated.”

Another meeting will be held on January 9. 

Anyone interested in volunteering their time or joining the committee can send a message on the Kelty Children’s Gala Facebook page.