Back in the late 1990s plans were afoot for a 21st Century village hall in Fowlis Wester with numerous local fund-raising events to match 10% of its estimated cost. The new hall opened in the Millennium, replacing a dearly loved, but decaying tin hall which used to be next to the old pub, and has been a focal point for the vibrant life of the village and surrounding area ever since. At the weekend, ignoring a covid imposed delay of a year, the village celebrated the hall’s 21st year with a full swinging ceilidh led by the masterful musical talents of Derek Richardson’s On the Wagon. Over 70 locals of all ages joined in the fun, community, dancing and celebration. Food was delicious stovies, as had been the menu 22 years ago – with a vegetarian option added, from Gourlays and a fine selection of locally made puddings and finishing off with a cake. Chairman Graham Coupar said ‘It was grand occasion to see so many together and joining in the celebration, proving just what community means’. Entertainment over the interval was laid on by Helen Graham, daughter of Alan and the late Aileen Doig, on the accordion playing a great selection of well known tunes and by Will I am the DJ Baxter providing a tremendous array ranging from Lou Reed to the Proclaimers. As one resident said afterwards ‘All your efforts much appreciated – it was a fine celebration of the Hall and the village’.