The Killyleagh Community Association (KCA) organised a fun day in the field below Killyleagh Castle and it was a roaring success.
Around 4000 people turned up to support it. This was the first of the big events planned by the recently-formed KCA who have won the support of their community.
Brian Osborne, KCA chairman said: “We are absolutely delighted at the crowd that has turned up today. They have come through the front gate in their droves. It certainly has been a very successful event and everything has gone well. The location has bee excellent, and the tug of war contest was very popular with the cadets stealing the show. They will be off to Bulgaria for an international tug-of-war event in a few weeks and we wish them well.
Check Out 85 Photos From The Fun Day Here
“The KCA is working very well and has plenty of support in the community. Our preparations went really well and we have exceeded our expectations. The vibes are very positive and we would like to thank all our sponsors and helpers especially the NI Housing Executive, Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Killyleagh Community Charity Shop for their support.
“I’s sure this event will be back again next year through public demand. The weather was good today with just a couple of showers. We were very lucky but this did nor deter the crowds.”
Newry Mourne and Down Councillor Billy Walker sang their praises and said: “As a public representative for the Rowallene area, I must applaud the efforts of the new Killyleagh Community Association. The fun day they have put on is second to none. Within a very short time they have worked hard and succeeded in pulling off an excellent community event enjoyed by many families in the town and far beyond.
“The whole is singing their praise. I have always supported these type of events in Killyleagh and the KCA plan more events in the future. They are doing this for all the right reasons to improve community relation and the health of our community and they should be commended.
“Putting this event together in a relatively short time was no easy task yet they rose to the occasion.”
Councillor Terry Andrews also spoke highly of the KCA and said: “This was a very successful event and shows what a community can do if it pulls together and works hard. They have certainly won the support of the people of Killyleagh and certainly my support since they were formed.
“I wish them every success in the future in their endeavours and things are certainly looking up now in Killyleagh as they are set to address some key issues in the months and years to come.”
This event was an opportunity to showcase how the village can come together and celebrate good relations.
The Housing Executive provided £6,844.00 of funding through its Community Cohesion Unit for the event.
Raymond Love from the Killyleagh Community Association added: “We were delighted with the turnout of people from Killyleagh at the family fun day. It was an excellent opportunity for our members to listen to concerns and issues of residents in a safe and friendly environment.
“We look forward to the next event hosted by Killyleagh Community Association to help promote Community Relations.”