PICTURES: Highland residents show community spirit at street party
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Cocktails and street food were on the menu as residents in a small Highland community celebrated all things local with a street party.
It was the first time the Strathdearn residents had come together en masse since the coronavirus pandemic.
Held around the Strathdearn Hub in Tomatin, the celebrations also included live music and children’s activities.
It was organised by Strathdearn Community Developments (SCD), the Strathdearn Hub and a team of volunteers.
Maureen McDonald-Cooke, project and development manager at SCD, said such events were crucial for smaller communities where residents may feel overlooked by organisations and events which favoured more populated areas.
"Strathdearn is a small community of only around 680 people, but we know how to put on a big celebration," she said.
"It’s been so long since we all got together, and it was amazing to see so many people ready to get into the spirit of things, to sing, dance and catch up.
"Without everyone pulling together like they did, our community would never have been able to run such a successful event that was enjoyed by all."She continued: "Strathdearn and communities like it have so much to offer. Events like our street party are so important to bring people together, to support one another and have fun together.
"We’re passionate about supporting our community and providing people in Strathdearn with the facilities, events and opportunities they deserve.
"We’re already thinking about what our next event might be, and are looking forward to seeing everyone again soon."
The event included complimentary cocktails from Tomatin Distillery street food by Frazers Catering, Treats on the Street and Martins Sweets.
The Shire took to the stage to belt out a host of sing-along classics while further musical entertainment was provided by volunteers who played a selection of traditional Scottish music.
Face painting was provided by Pam Hardwick, with children’s entertainment also coming from Rex’s Reptiles and bouncy castles from KJI’s Inflatables.
SCD is a charitable organisation responsible for distribution of funds and management of community projects across the Strathdearn area.
Its board and members make strategic decisions that will benefit the health, wellbeing and infrastructure of the community.
Over the last couple of years, SCD has built a new Strathdearn Community Hub, shop and cafe, made strides into providing community housing, introduced initiatives to improve health and wellbeing including an e-bike scheme and subsidised gym memberships; and managed a path regeneration project.
