Residents of Holbeck turned out in large numbers to enjoy Holbeck Gala on Saturday (19 July 2014) despite the frequent rain showers.
Months of planning by the organisers looked in jeopardy on Saturday morning as the rain came down on Holbeck. But volunteers rallied to help set up the event erecting marquees and gazebos, setting up the bar, stage and cafe.
Residents turned out to enjoy a range of stalls including goods made by the craft group at Holbeck Elderly Aid; information about new housing being built by the council and Unity; a chance to comment on the Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum on and on plans for the viaduct: the Holbeck Highline; and of course to buy home made jam from Councillor Angela Gabriel. The stalls were set out in a grid which really helped create a buzz.
There was plenty to do for young people from dancing competitions to den building, robot building, inflatables and the climbing wall. The Library Bus and Youth Services were also on hand. Perhaps inevitably given the weather, the bar (run by Holbeck Club and Holbeck Christian Fellowship) and community cafe proved popular. Entertainment was supplied with help from Old Chapel Studios and Slung Low Theatre were on hand giving out free tickets for their next show The White Whale.
