THE popular Dunfermline Children's Gala will take place this Saturday with a 'virtual' event for the second year running.

Organisers were unable to put on the traditional event in Pittencrieff Park so are hoping families in the town will join them online for a range of activities including a 'virtual' parade, entertainment and fun activities.

Chairperson Gary Love said it had been a tough – but necessary – call to hold the day online.

"Last year what we did was we had the 'virtual' gala and we decided again that, with the circumstances being what they are, we would do that again," he said.

"It was a really difficult decision but with the current restrictions, we couldn't safely put the gala on."

The day will start with words from gala patron, Provost Jim Leishman, at 11am and local entertainers and musicians will be taking part during the course of the day.

Activities will include a superhero exercise session and a baking lesson will also take place online.

"What we are basically doing is having an online event mirroring what the gala would be. We will have a pipe band introducing us and then a 'virtual' school parade and then activities."

Gary said they had already started to organise next year's event in Pittencrieff Park – which is scheduled for June 25 – however, warned that they desperately need people to take up committee positions.

"We really want to stress the importance of a committee – we are now down to about three individuals but we need a committee of eight to 10 people to run it safely," he explained.

"We need to build infrastructure up again and getting people behind it to allow us to do a gala well and, most importantly, safely. Without over-egging it, it is a slightly perilous state for the gala. It makes it really challenging to do each year so we are really committed to focusing on getting next year's on and getting a start on it.

"With a 'virtual' gala, we can run it with the three of us but when you are getting a couple of thousand children marching down the streets, it is much harder to do that.

"We have started the planning for next year and started to think about what it will be. I have contacted the schools and the Dunfermline MP and MSPs and we have asked for school reps to be identified.

"If you think you can help, please get in touch through our Facebook page or email dunfermlinegala@hotmail.com."