The Fochabers community has marked its 250th anniversary with a three-day gala that has raised a substantial sum to support local groups and activities.
Weekend of events draws strong turnout
Organisers said the weekend – which concluded on Sunday, 19 July – included a traditional gala day alongside a quiz night, tombola, strawberry tea and a duck race on the two preceding days. The Fochabers Village Association (FVA) Gala Committee described the overall fundraising as a notable achievement for a small village.
Figures reported by the committee show the gala day itself raised £5,583, with the other events bringing in a further £2,485. That total of £8,068 was described by the committee chair as “a lot of money for a small village”, and there is still a small amount to come off for outstanding expenses.
Separately, promotional material and some reports referred to the weekend raising “almost £10,000”. Organisers say final sums will be confirmed once all costs are settled and donations processed.
Special guests and messages mark milestone
The gala was opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Air Commodore Al Monkman, who attended as guest of honour. During the event he revealed that His Majesty King Charles had sent a letter of greetings to mark Fochabers’ 250th anniversary.
“We’re really, really pleased with the whole weekend and we’re absolutely delighted that the weather was so kind to us on Sunday, especially after the rain of last year… There’re still some expenses to come off – that’s a lot of money for a small village to raise and a great achievement.”
The committee highlighted the wide participation of local voluntary groups, whose stalls and activities added variety to the celebrations and helped boost takings.
- Gala day takings: £5,583
- Other event takings (Friday & Saturday): £2,485
- Reported total (before expenses): £8,068; promotional references suggest up to almost £10,000
Practical impact for the community
The FVA said the money raised will be returned to the community, in keeping with the gala’s long-standing motto, “By the community for the community”. Committee members stressed the importance of public support during still-difficult economic times, noting families have limited disposable income for fundraising events.
Organisers expressed particular gratitude to the core volunteer committee who coordinated the weekend and to everyone who attended and supported the fundraising. Final allocations to local groups will be confirmed once the committee has completed its accounting for the weekend.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gala day | £5,583 |
| Friday & Saturday events | £2,485 |
| Subtotal (reported) | £8,068 |
Further details on the final total and distribution of funds are expected once the FVA finalises its accounts and confirms any outstanding expenditure.
