WATCH: Sparkling day marks gala's 40th anniversary

Despite some early forecasts of rain, the anniversary event was blessed with plenty of sun, ensuring bumper crowds to following the parade and then enjoy the entertainment in Burnside Park afterwards.

To the traditonal musical accompaniment and decorated floats, the royal party left Station Green early in the afternoon and headed past cheering spectators on Station Road, Elphinstone Street, Standalane, Kellywood, Toll Road and Kirk Street.

Once at the park, new queen Kira Lattka was crowned in a glittering ceremony before the entertainment got under way for the remainder of the day.

As well as series of displays - including bands, dancing, a magician and a dog agility show - there were a range of other attractions, such as trampolines, quad bikes, a climbing wall and pony rides,

And, with the weather staying fair, the ice cream van and cake stall also did a roaring trade!

The gala day - the climax to a week of events – was a credit to the hard-working committee and all the townsfolk who played their part.