Kinross community event is one of the best ever

Loch Leven Community Campus provided the backdrop for the Kinross Half Marathon, Loch Leven Pipe Band Contest and Feel Good Fair, a combination of events that thrilled and entertained the huge crowds.

The joint venture is organised and co-ordinated by Kinross Road Runners; Dundee, Perth & Angus branch of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association; Kinross-shire Local Events Organisation (KLEO) and Loch Leven Community Campus.

Said organiser Gerry McGregor: “This year brought fine weather and add that to the wide variety of entertainment and activities on offer meant that over 4000 people made up of the runners and pipe bands competitors’ friends and families, as well as the wider local population, had a fun-packed day out complete with absolutely superb weather the whole day.

15 bands took part in the pipe band competition in Kinross

“Kinross Road Runners hosted their most successful Loch Leven Half Marathon to date. Entries sold out for the 33rd Half Marathon in record time, and a record number took on the challenging route in sweltering heat, and a torrent of flies! The finishers were cheered on by huge crowds at the Campus.”

First runner to finish was David Limmer, from Portobello, in one hour 14 minutes 11 seconds, while the first lady was Sheena Logan from Fife AC in one hour 25 minutes 28 seconds.

First Kinross Road Runners home were Andy Laycock and Jillian Gordon.

Meanwhile, the Loch Leven Pipe Band Contest was being held for the fifth time and this year attracted 15 bands.

A massed bands finale brought all proceedings to a close in spectacular style.

The Feel Good Fair also proved popular.

In all, more than 45 stalls were set up in the campus by local crafters, charities and community groups.

Loch Leven Community Library provided activities for the children and there was a display and film showing by Kinross Museum.

Other attractions included a bouncy castle, family sports and a Highland dancing display.

Swansacre Playgroup organised the yearly Fun Run for children under 12 years old, which this year attracted some 125 youngsters.

After the Fun Run there was an unofficial ‘Mascot Race Off’ between Library Book Bug and Lauriston Nursery Lobster.

Said Gerry: “Many heartfelt thanks and gratitude go to all of the event sponsors who kindly provided either facilities or funding for the event and all the local groups who provided volunteers for the day and made it such a success,