THE shows will be on at the Famous Alva Games next month, organisers reiterated this week following fears to the contrary.

While the John Evans Funfair was cancelled last month due to an increase in council charges, as reported in the Advertiser at the time, the people behind the annual games wanted to “make it crystal clear” the travelling fair coming to their event will operate as normal next month.

The usual amusements remain an “integral part” of the games and will be in place each evening on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from around 6pm in the lead up to the competitions on Saturday, July 14, as well as from 12noon on the big day itself.

Craig Dunbar, secretary of the Famous Alva Games, said: “The loss of the [John Evans] Funfair in May due to the new charging policy of the local authority was obviously a blow to the townsfolk of Alva and the wider county, but the rides, attractions, side shows and stalls and all of the usual snack bars and catering outlets will be in place as they have been now for almost 150 years between July 11 and 14.

“So, please come along and support the travelling fair – it is there for your entertainment and enjoyment and will continue to play a pivotal role at the Famous Alva Games for the foreseeable future.

“And please tell your friends and family – the shows are ON!”

The secretary issued the statement as organisers receive inquiries regarding the issue “on an almost daily basis”, since the funfair in May was cancelled.

Last month, organisers of the John Evans Funfair explained they will not be able to visit the Hillfoots for the first time in around 50 years after charges to hire the Cochrane or Johnstone Parks soared from £100 a day to £300 a day.

Those behind that event explained the increased charges combined with other costs mean running it is no longer viable, especially as the charges in Wee County parks are not far removed from daily costs in Glasgow.

Jordan Evans, grandson of chief John, branded it “the end of an era”.

After the May funfair was cancelled some people reached “the wholly incorrect conclusion that there would be no shows” at the games – said Craig.

He added: “I just want to make it crystal clear that nothing could be further from the truth.

“The fair will operate as normal […]”