BARK IN THE PARK IS BACK
Waggy tails at pooch parade
Organisers of the first major event to be held in the Strath capital since the easing of coronavirus restrictions have spoken of their delight at being able to host a community gathering once more.
More than 200 dogs and their families enjoyed canine capers in MacRosty Park on Sunday when Bark in the Park made a welcome return.
Crieff ’s Chris McIntosh, the man behind the pooch parade, said that the large attendance was an indication of the huge appetite to get out to events again.
He told the Herald: “I am delighted that we were able to open up the park again for a community event – after nearly
Overall, it was a terrific team effort from many friends and neighbours in and around MacRosty Park Chris McIntosh
three years.
“We were very fortunate to have the terrific support of Fionna Keiller and her team from the Crieff Dog Club and local councillors Rhona Brock and Stewart Donaldson as judges.
“And we could never have achieved it without our wonderfully chatty and witty commentator for the day, Roy MacDonald.
“We were also hugely indebted for the help and support from the Friends of MacRosty Park, Kids’ Week in Crieff, Rob Bell at the Pavilion Café and PKC’s greenspace rangers Calum Bachell and Chris Martin.
“We were delighted to be entertained by the musical contributions from Brass Central Strathearn and Comrie Pipe Band, who opened and closed proceedings in such impressive style.”
The day was a real family affair, but one designed to promote an important message in terms of animal welfare.
Chris continued: “The day’s focus – as well as celebrating our wonderful dogs – was on dog husbandry and rehoming issues, which are particularly relevant during and after the pandemic.
“To that end, we were fortunate to benefit from advice and guidance given freely by PADS and the SSPCA – both of whom had stands at the event.
“We were also grateful to Alan’s Pet Shops, PADS and Scruffy Dog Cider, who sponsored some of our competition categories and provided prizes.”
Chris continued: “It was a huge delight to see so many and see the glowing faces of mums, dads and grandparents as the youngsters paraded their dogs around the show ring.
“Overall, it was a terrific team effort from many friends and neighbours in and around MacRosty Park, and we were blessed with a warm and dry day.
“Altogether, I hope that we were able to offer the good folk and families of Strathearn a really enjoyable day out after 18 months during which such events have been restricted.”