MERKINCH Gala Princess 2000 is Lesley Scott of Kessock Road. Lesley (centre) is a P6/7B pupil at Merkinch and was chosen, after much deliberation by the judges. Indeed, Karen McGraw of the Community Schools project and sports coach Graham Cooper found great difficulty in making up their minds, what with the talent, enthusiasm and personality of the 18 entrants up for the roles of Princess and Attendants. Chosen to attend Princess Lesley are Catherine Cameron of Carnarc Crescent, who is in P6K and Natasha Stewart of Rosehaugh Road (P5/6).

The Gala is at Clachnacuddin FC park on Saturday 8 July. The proceedings kick off with last year’s princess, Karen Pollock, cutting the ribbon, followed by the Crowning of the new princess.

Besides a Bouncy Castle, Coconut Shy, Pick-a-Nail and Keybox there will be a wide range of stalls at the Gala, and those wishing to run car boot-style stalls should contact Merkinch Community Centre. Oh yes, and there is a display of Line Dancing and a mini-Highland Games. Definitely a date for the diary!