MORE than 1000 people descended on The Royal Northern and Clyde Yacht Club on Saturday, June 11 to enjoy all the fun of the fayre during this year's new-look Rhu and Shandon Gala.

For the last 17 years Ardenconnel Field was the usual venue to host the popular annual event.

But this year, due to the field being redeveloped into an all-weather sports pitch, organisers had to find a new home.

And The Royal Northern and Clyde Yacht Club (RNCYC) came to the rescue and kindly offered their premises for exclusive use on gala day.

From 10.30am there were a host of activities and things to keep the children entertained.

The Rhu Lifeboat Station was open to the public, while at 11am Formula 1 Power Boat and MOD Police Boats took centre stage on the Gareloch.

Around 11:30am the RNLI Lifeboat was launched and it's always a sight to behold.

Then at noon the main attraction, the Gala Procession proceeded off from Rhu Marina, before there was an official opening at the RNCYC by Cdr Charles Darley.

As always the Crowning of the Gala King and Queen took place, before the ever popular dog show.

Helensburgh Clan Colquohoun Pipe Band were on duty, as were the Claire Burns Dancers.

There was a falconry display, Yoga session and family races which included the sprints, the three-legged race, along with the traditional egg and spoon race, Tug of War, before the gala ended on a major high with the raffle.

Vice chairman of the Rhu and Shandon Gala Committee Gordon Black said: "Numbers were really good, although I don't have an exact figure I would reckon over 1000 attended.

"It was a massive success and we've only had positive feedback.

"The dog show had its busiest ever number of entrants. The winner of best dog in show was Margery Osborne with Minnie the Miniature Dachshund.

"The family races were as popular as ever but I reckon the tug of war competition went down fantastically.

"Four teams of six entered with the Rhu Inn team winning the overall competition."

Gordon would especially like to thank the RNCYC for their help and assistance.

He said: "A massive thanks to the Royal Northern for allowing us to use their grounds. It lends itself wonderfully to the gala and it couldn't have happened without them.

"Also a massive thanks to the volunteers from Rhu and Shandon Parish Church who ran the tea room for us.

"Thanks, as ever, to Fiona Baker for running the dog show, and a huge thanks to Bridget from the Ardencaple Hotel who ran the BBQ.

"Thanks obviously to anyone and everyone who volunteered with setting up, running and taking down. The list is too big to mention everyone."