For Pete’s sake let’s have some fun

In fact by common consent the bonzer Aussie surf-fest of Antipodes-themed entertainment was the perfect tribute to one particularly well-known local man who, sadly, wasn’t able to attend.

“Aussie Pete” - Peter Kennedy - was originally from Down Under but made the village his real home from home, bringing a larger than life sense of fun and vibrancy to his adopted community.

“PK” passed away last October, and it was a moot point whether the Fun Day – an event he revelled in – would be much fun at all without him.

But Fun G’Day, as it was renamed for the occasion, was a stunning success.

It had everything to enjoy from a surf simulator to hungry crocodiles, bushtucker trials, a roo race – and also plenty of old-fashioned but hugely popular favourites including pony rides, tombola, face painting and home baking.

It was the tenth fun day (the event was launched in 2005 to replace the earlier annual gala day), and the tribute to Pete was given the ultimate endorsement via a text from Oz.

Pete’s son Troy Kennedy, messaging his support from Australia, said: “Great stuff. What a fantastic idea! PK, the crazy Aussie he was, would love it!”

Staged in and around the village hall, pub, park and paddock the fun started just after lunch and lasted all evening - with Crawfordjohn’s own Rod Stewart helping to keep things lively.

The pub also laid on free burgers and staged its ever-popular Fun Day Quiz.

The cause to benefit this year is the British Heart Foundation, and if you weren’t able to attend you can still donate by handing in a cheque (to “British Heart Foundation”) at the Colebrooke Arms, or send to Wendy Johnstone, 4 The Loaning, Crawfordjohn, Near Biggar, ML12 6SW.