Seghill Gala
Saturday 4th June, saw the village celebrate its 100th Childrens Gala.
The weather was not kind to us, it was cool and overcast, but this did not dampen anyones spirits.
A dedicated band of volunteers got the Gala site ready for the start.
The Gala parade left Deneside led by Parade leader Elsie Harvey resplendant in a vintage Morris Minor with the Morpeth Pipe Band following, the Gala Queen and her 2 assistants followed in a splendid 2 horse carriage, they were followed by a replica of the colliery banner then the children of the village 1st school, they were followed by a float from the Seghill Rugby Juniors behind them was a character from Giant Legs then the Ellington Colliery Brass Band followed by members of the Blyth Battery Living Museum and at the end of the parade a Light Tank from the Queens Own Yoemanry, the parade led its way through the village and the corwds lined the main street.
On arrival at the park, after the Gala Queen and her Attendants were presented on stage the gala was officially opened by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland Captain Iain Moffat RD DL, there then followed a presentation to Jimmy Clough and Elsie Harvey for all their work over the years in keeping the gala going.
Then the gala got into full swing, with music from the Seghill Accordion Band, Ellington Colliery Brass Band and the pipes, drums and dancers from the Morpeth pipe band, also Irish dancing from the Clann-Na-Ngael Irish dance group. there was a good selection in the craft fayre area, the gala tea room proved a very popular attraction, other attractions included Animal antics and Keilder Birds of Prey, a great play area for the children and many others.
Also on the field the 1st school races and 2 football challenge matches.
Unfortunately the highlight of the gala, the flypast had to be cancelled due to the low cloud and wind.
Following the presentation of gifts to the village children, which included a specially minted commemorative coin and a free pass to Seaton Delaval hall, the same dedicated band of volunteers got everything tidied up and packed away till next year!!
As this year is our centenary Gala, we are making an appeal to anyone who might have any memoribilia about the Gala, photos, videos, souveniers etc. If you have please contact George Arnott (gwarn47@aol.co.uk). We would like to stage an exhibition in the Community Centre (institute).
More information will be added to this page.
thank you.
