10,000 flock to revival of Kirkcaldy Pageant in 2000

The traditional event withered in the 1980s, but, after an absence of 21 years, it was brought back in 2000.

Colin Murray was the man behind the initiative in a bid to revive community spirit and create a new era of Lang Toun Lads and Lasses.

April 2000 saw the revival formally announced ahead.

The pageant was traditionally held to raise funds for local charities and provide a fun filled day for the community

One of the highlights was the crowning of the Lang Toun Lad and Lass who were picked from the many youth groups within the town.

The revived event - which took place in Beveridge Park – aimed high with a whole weekend of activities including a charity raft park on the park’s pond and a 10k run.

Twelve youngsters attended an event at the Cope Centre, Pentland Place, where the first Lang Toun Lad and Lass of the millennium were revealed as Craig Mitchell, from Dunnikier Primary, and Elaine McCallum from Sinclairtown.

Come the big weekend in August, they were centre stage as the procession made its way from Fife Ice Arena to Beveridge Park - and over 10,000 people turned out to enjoy the fun.

The Lad and Lass were joined on the platform by Councillor John MacDougall, convener of Fife Council, to perform the opening ceremony which signalled the start of two days of fun.

The programme included a 10k race, a raft race, over 30 stalls manned by local charities, live music, and a dog obedience demonstration by Kingdom Dog Agility Club.