Kirkby Malzeard to hold three-day village gala

Kirkby Malzeard is to revive its village gala over three days in June.

Now known as The Big Weekend, it will include street food, stalls, a bar and an 11k run as well as children’s activities.

Details of the event, which will be held from June 16 to 18, were unveiled this week at a launch event that included Cllr Felicity Cunliffe-Lister, who was recently elected to represent Masham and Fountains on North Yorkshire Council.

Pippa Manson, chairman of Kirkby Malzeard, Laverton and Dallowgill Parish Council, said:

“For many years we had a gala with a parade and all the trimmings but this gradually faded.

“However, in recent years we have put on amazing events to support the Tour de Yorkshire and last year a four-day extravaganza over the jubilee.  Attendance was very high so we know people support and enjoy these village festivities”.

The playing field activities will include an 11k crackpot run, a mini mosaic walk and children’s disco.

There will also be a youth arts festival, a parade, a scarecrow trail and a dog show and scurry.


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The Big Weekend will round off at the village pub, The Queen’s Head, with an all-age karaoke and barbecue.

Ms Manson said:

“This is the first time we will be holding such an ambitious event and opening it up to the area. The more the success, the more the community benefits.”

Profits from the weekend will be used to host other activities, such as the bonfire and youth projects.

Photo shows: Cllr Felicity Cunliffe-Lister, parish council chair Pippa Manson, parish councillor Richard Hughes and Big Weekend committee members.