Crieff Halloween celebrations moving to Leadenflower car park

Oct 30 2009 by Lynn Duke, Strathearn Herald

CRIEFF’S creepy celebrations will take place in the lower Leadenflower car park this year on the hallowed eve itself, Saturday, October 31.

The annual Hallowe’en party for local children, organised by Crieff Community Council, gets underway at 5pm.

The spooky goings-on have been moved to this new location as works to fully upgrade the electricity in the Square have put the traditional venue out-of-bounds.

Entrants to the fancy dress competition will be judged in three age categories: up to five year olds; six to nine year olds and 10 to 12 year olds with cash prizes for the winners. There will also be prizes for the best lanterns brought on the night.

Food, drink and treats will be provided by the Community Council and other generous sponsors. There will also be music and the usual side shows from Walter Park.

Also on Saturday and described as a less-scary party for primary school children will be a get together in Crieff Baptist Church Hall. The Sparkle Party begins at 5pm and children should dress up in sparkly or bright colours.

And as the fright night approaches Strathearn’s police officers are encouraging youngsters to think again if they are planning any late-night exploits.

Following on from last year’s successful “Hallowe’en Plan”, local officers are working with businesses throughout the area in an attempt to nip incidences of egg and flour throwing in the bud.

Constable Keri Murray explained: “Last year we had a really positive response to the plan and the young people of Strathearn found the right balance – by having fun without causing a nuisance.

“We have already been round the local shops to speak with owners and ask them to be on the lookout for anyone attempting to buy copious amounts of either eggs or flour.

“We have had a good response from the businesses and all have said that they will monitor sales.

“We would also like parents to be aware of what they have in their cupboards.

“If you are targeted by someone throwing eggs or flour at your windows or doors it can be very distressing, especially for older members of the community.

“It is also very inconvenient to have to tidy up the mess left behind after such an incident.”

Anyone found acting suspiciously will be searched and action taken if deemed necessary.

PC Murray added: “If any young people are caught getting up to no good they will be taken to their local police station and parents will be called to take them home.”

Tayside Police have assured locals that there will be an increased police presence in the evenings and especially over the weekend. Officers will also be patrolling in residential areas.

Strathearn Police officers will also be working closely with Tayside Fire and Rescue Service in the run up to Bonfire Night.