MCLAREN Leisure celebrates its 20th anniversary this weekend.

On July, 28 in 1998, it welcomed the public for the first time, with the official opening conducted by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal on August 18 of the same year. 

Tomorrow (Saturday, July 28) it will celebrate its 20th birthday with the Trossachs Summer Festival (noon-3pm) and a ceilidh in the evening (8pm til late). 

There will be everything at the Trossachs Summer Festival from hockey to circus skills, swimming to face painting, Ninja Trials to cycling, a show ring for pipers, highland dancers and live music, as well as a BBQ, family challenge mini Highland Games and a whole host of other fun family activities. 

David Moore, chairperson of the board of directors, said: “We are very proud of the sport and leisure facilities and services which we provide to our community of Callander, the Trossachs and Teith. 

"It is quite some achievement to have been running these for 20 years and we are looking forward to doing so for a further 20 years - and beyond!

“The Scottish Government has recognised the importance of sport and leisure activities in changing people’s lives in a positive way. 

"We provide opportunities for our rural population of all ages and abilities to participate in sport and physical activity, improving their health and wellbeing. 

"We also aid the development of people’s skills to participate and compete in various sports and clubs, including swimming, climbing, hockey, football, athletics and kids camps.”

Trish Thompson, centre manager, said: “We are led by our community, for our community and work hard to make it a stronger, healthier and better place to live.  

"Our core values are about displaying a positive and welcoming approach; ensuring inclusivity across all our services and facilities; focusing on wellbeing and promoting a healthy lifestyle; and working in partnership with the community and other organisations.

“As a social enterprise, we reinvest all of our income into the centre, contributing to the local economy and providing 30 local jobs and additional Modern Apprenticeships. 

"Please join us in celebrating our 20th birthday year by either coming along on the 28th or paying us a visit very soon.”