The weather could not have been any better for this beautiful, fun-filled family day out. I am talking about the annual Middleton Gala which took place yesterday – Saturday 13th July 2013, at Middleton Primary School.
As this was my first time attending this event, I gave myself enough time to wander around before the actual programme began. I put on my Community Reporter’s cap as well as Voluntary Community Organiser’s cap. Above all, I just wanted to be part of this locally organised community event – yes my own community. Fun-seeking people; both adults and kids were walking about, taking in what was on display on the numerous stalls.
As I made my way onto the arena, where most of the activities were taking place, I got hold of MP Hilary Benn. I felt honoured to have the opportunity to have a brief chat with him on this special community gathering.
Although the programme stated that Councillor Kim Groves would officiate the gala opening, the honour was bestowed on Hilary Benn, who excitedly and warmly welcomed everyone to this annual event and declared the event officially open; inviting people to enjoy the day’s programme of events which included:
- “Waiting for the weekend” by Cockburn Band
- DAZL (ASHtag Project)
- Supreme Starlets
- Karate display
- Winthorpe Whirlers
- Zumba display with audience participation
- Dynamite Dance group
- Raffle draw.
Leeds United Football Club and Middleton Park FC demo were some of the activities on the field.
I enjoyed every moment that I spent at the gala but my highlights were:
It was good to see the “church” out there meeting with the people and inviting them to “share” those things in their hearts that they felt they needed to pray about. A problem shared is a problem halved…
- Rev Sue Sowden at the Circuit Stall with the Prayer Tree
I really appreciated the young and upcoming talent in South Leeds. It felt like I was watching Middleton’s Got Talent – a local version of Britain’s Got Talent as we have our own acts like “Pre Skool and Attraction. That is how good our kids are and with the right level of support, they can go places. For me, it was more than just entertainment. Middleton Leisure Centre had a stall where they were confirming to the community that they are back in business. Jeremy Morton was there to promote South Leeds Life and he was giving out very colourful postcards for FREE.
I would have loved to talk to everyone and capture every action but this was not to be. My humble gratitude is now being expressed to everyone that honoured me with the privilege to showcase their displays in this news article.
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