Newhills Church

Saturday 28th August 2010

Despite a rogue shower or two, nothing could dampen the enthusiasm for Caribbean Music from the Bucksburn Academy Steel Band as their Head Teacher Kassim Mohamed officially opened proceedings. He, along with a few other willing souls, would later be a “victim” at the Wet Sponge “stocks” which raised, along with some sales from the TEARFUND stall, £100 for the Pakistan Flood Appeal.

We were entertained by Alex Green and Madeline Miller, an accomplished Scottish Music Duo known around Aberdeenshire, with tin whistle and accordion, and later in the church (because it was raining) the City of Roses Chorus displayed their Barber Shop singing skills. The Friskis and Swettis Swedish Exercise Group showed their resilience, as the rain came down. Though others took shelter in the tea-room, the valiant troop, supported by a few other hardy souls, continued their series of exercises, and found a few new recruits for their on-going courses.

In the field between the Bucksburn Care Home and the Church was a Bouncy Castle and a variety of games, and the all important BAR-B-Q manned by Men of All Ages. The Teddy Bears’ Picnic was a great attraction with many children and teddies heading down to the woods and playing all sorts of games. Later in the day there was the Total Wipeout Competition that saw children and adults pit their wits against a variety of challenges. Great Fun!

In the Car Park at the Church, we had borrowed the RED BUS from Dyce Church. This has been kitted out with playstations and DVDs and is a gathering point for young people needing a positive outlet for their energy. On Saturday, it was always busy and well used.

In the church, Katy Wood and her Dad brought a fine array of reptiles for fascinated children and grown ups to look at and handle. Like last year it drew in many curious visitors who overcame their nartural fears to give the creatures a touch. The Main Hall became the refuge for a number of stalls that were intended for outside. the Face-painting was hard at work for the whole time as was the Tea-room offering a welcome cuppa and pancakes. And there we found representatives from the Beacon Centre with their banners telling about the Adult Learning Activities and Youth Programme available. With visits from the Community Police, Local Councillor, Residents and families from the Bucksburn Community, and the willing hands of Newhills Church, a good day was had by all. Thanks to the many people who played their part, in particular the members of the Outreach Team and the main organiser Catherine Wood.

Pictures to follow soon!