'BEST ever Village Day,' was the comments made by a number of families after this year’s festival in Symington last Saturday.

A warm and sunny start to the day led to a definite buzz around the football club as the marquee went up, the stall holders started to arrive and the activities were erected.

The pet show was busier than ever with more than 20 entries.

And this year Penny, the Jack Russell - owned by Adam Duncan - was Best in Show.

Judge Katie Mellanby was impressed with the turnout and behaviour of this year's entries.

The fun day continued with a bucking bronco, mobile assault course, climbing wall, digibus, bouncy castle, gladiator challenge, maze, bungee run, mobile skate park and face painting.

Once again, this year, the committee were able to offer the activities free of charge having obtained grants from the Clyde Wind farm fund, South Lanarkshire Council and local community councils.

Jane Stevens from Tinto Village Day Committee said: "We are extremely grateful for this funding as it ensures all children get the opportunity to enjoy all the activities, as many times as they want throughout the day.

"Our fancy dress competition was also a big success this year, with many more entries and many home-made costumes.

"Well done to our overall winners, Bailey and Charley in their Irn Bru and Sugar Tax costumes.

"Thanks also to our judge this year, Alison Rogers, who had the difficult job of choosing the winners and to Vicky Macdonald for coordinating the competition."

This year's festival parade was led by Biggar Pipe Band and the Biggar Twirlers.

A jam-packed afternoon of fun featured live entertainment, children’s races, football and beat the goalie.

Bill Denholm from the Tinto Village Day Committee added: "It was fantastic this year to welcome many more local groups, who provided a variety of activities, games and refreshments.

"Some of these were supporting Village Day for the first time and they were very impressed by how busy the day was and how many activities were on offer for families.

"Inside the hall, the Guild provided teas, coffees and home baking, as well as shelter, which was needed when the rain came! "However, this did not appear to dampen the spirits, many were able to take refuge under the large marquee."

Despite the heavy showers the David Dunbar Cross Clyde Race still attracted 41 runners.

Scott Smith emerged as the overall winner with Vanessa Hamilton taking the ladies' title.

Bill added: "The day was one of the busiest ever, despite the weather, and throughout the day we received many comments of how much everyone was enjoying their day and how pleased they were to see so many stalls and activities, as well as being able to enjoy the live music during the afternoon.

"Of course, none of this would be possible without the help and support of many people and we would like to thank all those who came on the day, donated prizes, advertised in our programme or entered the competitions.

"We must also mention Symington Tinto Football Club, without whom there would be no Village Day."

An appeal has been made by the committee for new members to join as preparations begin for next year's Village Day.

Further information is available from janebillstevens425@btinternet.com.