Stewarton Bonnet Guild events announced along with Corsehill royals

The Bonnet Guild festival returns this June with a full programme of events to celebrate the 91st anniversary.

The festival began in 1933 and was originally created by local businessmen in Stewarton to provide a summer gala day for local families. Today, it is a week-long community festival, run by volunteer members of the Bonnet Guild – a non-profit organisation.

This year, the eagerly anticipated festival returns with a week of the usual fun, games and activities planned, for all ages to enjoy including kids’ disco, karaoke, football, trail runs, fire station display and sports competitions.

There are also some new events to enjoy this year including a Bonnet Guild Duck Race, a walking treasure hunt and a writing competition.

The festival will run from June 8 until June 16 with the highlight of the week, the crowning of the Corsehill Queen, taking place at 12.20pm on Gala Day on Saturday, June 15 in Avenue Square. Irvine and Dreghorn Brass will be performing from 11.30am.

The Corsehill Queen and her court for 2024 were selected by Stewarton Academy, Nether Robertland Primary School and Lainshaw Primary School.

The Corsehill Queen Elect will be Rebecca Nokes and this year’s First Courtier will be Owen Walker.

The full court this year includes a 1st Maid Sophie Borthwick, 2nd Maid Eilidh Paterson, as well as Maids: Anna Lagan, Alexandra McCann, Winnie Dyer and Emma Montgomery.

The 2nd Courtier this year is Thomas Sneddon, Herald - Xander McGrouther, Sword Bearer - James Macpherson, Crown Bearer - Kai Darby, Sceptre Bearer - Bruce Menzies, Queen’s Highlander - Zac Cowper, and Pages - Ben Davidson and Reece Penny.

Patrick McFadden, President of Stewarton Bonnet Guild said: “This year marks the 91st anniversary of Bonnet Guild week and we are looking forward to the forthcoming festivities week very much. Preparations are well underway and celebrations will commence with traditional bunting being hung along the main streets of Stewarton at the beginning of the week, and will finish with the parade to the war memorial and divine service on Sunday, June 16.

"The 'Scottish Sporting Achievements' theme for the decorated shop window displays and float parade on Saturday, June 15, is sure to be one of the most colourful and anticipated parts of the week and we are hoping for record participation in this our 91st year!"

Anyone interested in helping, sponsoring, supporting or donating to this year’s Festival should contact President Patrick McFadden via email: info@stewartonbonnetguild.org

All proceeds raised from this year’s festival will go towards ensuring the local festival will return next year for the whole community to enjoy once again.

For further information please visit here.

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