HUNDREDS of families came together for the Big Noise Fun Day at Ochil Park, in the Raploch.

They gathered to enjoy top performances from children and staff during the festivities.

Big Noise Staff Band opened the day’s activities followed by performances from the children’s Wind, String and Brass ensembles, The Noise Choir made up of adults who work or live in the community, all culminating in sensational music from the Big Noise Raploch Symphony Orchestra.

While crowds enjoyed a barbeque, they were treated to entertainment from the Big Noise Big Band and Kay Klass Dance.

There was also a bouncy castle, face painting, football fun from Raploch Hearts and a cake to celebrate the 10th birthday of Sistema Scotland and Big Noise.

Peter Nicholson, Big Noise Raploch team leader, said: “The fun day was a huge success and we had a fantastic turnout from the local community who provide such a massive support for Big Noise Raploch.

“We would like to thank Stirling Council for their continued support and our partners for the event – Stirling Council Youth Services, Kay Klass Dance, Raploch Hearts, Raploch Community Partnership and Deli Fresh.”

The Big Noise programme, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, uses music to transform the lives of children living in disadvantaged communities.

It uses the symphony orchestra and learning a musical instrument, via an immersive and intensive programme, as the tools to equip children with a wide range of social and life skills including confidence, resilience and aspiration.

Sistema Scotland, the charity which runs the Big Noise programmes, was launched by Richard Holloway in Raploch, Stirling in 2008 with 35 children.

Stirling Council was the first pioneering partner to trial the programme.  

Now more than 2,500 children take part in the programme every week at Raploch and the three other Big Noise centres in Govanhill, Glasgow; Torry, Aberdeen; Douglas, Dundee.

Scott Farmer, Stirling Council leader, said: “Stirling Council is delighted to continue supporting the Big Noise programme and its ongoing success.

“Learning to play an instrument, performing in an orchestra and being part of Big Noise helps our children to develop much broader life skills.

"It also improves well-being as well as their confidence, resilience and communication skills.”

Find out more about the Big Noise here.