A GALA gang responsible for keeping the flame of village tradition burning brightly is about to clock up its silver milestone.

Saturday September 13 marks the 25th annual Moss Bank event, staged on the village green opposite the Black Horse pub. And this time, as well as all the usual attractions, a little extra celebration is planned.

A hot-pot supper with entertainment will be held in the nearby mission building after the gala, where local folk who have supported the event over the years will be among guests with whom gala stalwart and chairman Bernard Wilson will share memories of earlier occasions. Tickets are available at £5 each.

This 2003 event promises something for everyone including a parade and the crowning of the Gala Queen, races and a flat-cap throwing challenge, a display by the Mucky Mountain morris dancing men, a tug o' war event and an exhibition of old photographs.

Neighbourly

Music by the Parr Band, a Preston's health club 'taster', stalls and a road show are also on the bill. The kiddies will be kept happy by the Punch and Judy show and kiddies' fairground.

And what village 'do' would be complete without the home produce marquee? Adults will be competing with their scones and sponge cakes plus houseplants. And there will also be garden-flower and homegrown produce displays.

The children's classes include pictures, fairy cakes and miniature garden sections, while an art exhibition will be staged in the mission where refreshment will also be available.

This all adds up to a triumph for village spirit in times when such neighbourly occasions seem to be fast fading into memory. It promises to be a great afternoon out.Fingers crossed that it will be a bright sunny day ...