COALSNAUGHTON recently came together for a fun day, raising funds to improve the playground for school children.

It was the first time Coalsnaughton Primary and Nursery as well as its Parent Council organised a school fair for a number of years and it “just went like a dream”, according to headteacher Coleen ClarkBurns.

Stalls were manned by a number of local businesses while a range of activities offered fun for everyone.

One of the highlights was splat the teacher with headteacher Coleen, senior early years worker Wilma Wilson and a bunch more bravely in the stocks.

There was also beat the goalie, splat the rat, a book stall, a tombola and hot dogs that all sold out.

Businessman Donnie MacDonald kindly donated clothes and shoes for a stall, which also helped raise funds.

Batman also made an appearance, with local officers, who also came along, musing that everything should be under control with him around.

Firefighters were also on hand to talk to youngsters and show off their engine while Forth Valley First Responders brought a dummy to pass on life-saving skills.

It was a “brilliant day” said the headteacher, and bikers from Tillicoultry also came along to enhance the programme while the family of staff were keen to help out.

Altogether, around £466 was raised. The money will be used to enhance the playground for children, who took the lead on creating a plan for their own space through the Pupil Council with the help of parents.

Coleen told the Advertiser: “It was well attended by the local community, parents and residents of Coalsnaughton and the sun was scorching.”

Since the event had not been on for a number of years, everyone wanted to make it a great day with the headteacher adding: “It just went like a dream, it was really good!”

The youngsters are now looking forward to an eco-friendly balloon race on the last day of teaching before the summer break.

Coleen added: “Thanks to all the parents and all the local businesses who attended. Also thanks to the staff members and the Parent Council who gave up their time to organise and attend on the day and a big thank you to the children – we had a lot of fun together.”