NETHERDALE is set to host an innovative community event this Saturday.

Maroon’d at Gala was initially planned for April 2020, but was unable to take place due to the coronavirus pandemic.

This weekend, around 800 people are expected to head to the stadium.

On the day there will be five different events including the Gala Mini Maroons 7s Tournament, the Gala Red Triangle 7s Tournament, Gala Wanderers 7s Tournament, Gala Vixens Festival and the Gala RFC 7s Tournament.

In addition, there will be an athletics event in the form of a 5km fun run.

Walking, disabled and ladies’ football will also take place on the Gala Fairydean Rovers pitch.

These events will continue throughout the day from approximately 10.30am until the culmination of the senior Gala Sevens at about 7pm.

Alongside themed bars there will be live music and street food vendors, as well as fun-activities to keep everyone busy including Inflatables, funfair rides and a ‘fan-cam’ on the big screen.

There will also be live bands from noon playing traditional rock and folk from the best of local talent including Small Town Splitters, Just Gee, Erin Highton, Sonny McLeod, Ben Inglis, Matt McGhie, Evie Archenhold, Becc & Forth, Three out of Four, Geckohead, Patersun, Zenith and the Galashiels Ex Service Pipe Band.

Ian Dalgleish, Gala RFC president said: “The Maroon’d @ Gala concept was very well received when we first launched the event in late 2019. 

“As a result, we’ve had a really positive response to our plans for this year, and together with the invited clubs, we’re absolutely committed to making it happen.

“While one of our key objectives remains to re-energise our annual 7s as part of an innovative festive-style event, the health of our friends, family and colleagues is our priority. 

“The changing landscape due to the coronavirus pandemic has made it challenging to organise activities with absolute certainty, but we believe that we can create an event, in accordance with government guidance, that can once again capture the imagination of the local community and celebrate the proud sporting history of Gala Rugby, as well as inspire our future stars.”

Food will be provided by MPH Cook-Up, The Haggis Box, Mackay’s of Eyemouth and AM/PM.

Refreshments will be available throughout the day at five themed bars – the Cocktail Bar, Music Lounge, Clubroom, Festival Bar and the Red and Back Bar.

There will also be a free shuttle bus service running every 30 minutes from Stirling Street to Netherdale, and then back later in the evening.