THERE was a special commemoration in Alloa as people gathered to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III.

Dignitaries and residents were at Alloa Old People's Welfare's Greenfield Hall on Monday, May 8, for what has been described as a “right royal do”.

In attendance were the likes of the Wee County's Sir George Reid – Knight Companion of the Order of the Thistle, Lord-Lieutenant Johnny Stewart – the crown's representative in the Wee County and Provost Donald Balsillie.

Folks at the hall also gathered to watch the coronation live the weekend before while the Monday event has been hailed a resounding success and a wonderful day by many.

The event saw a selection of British and international cuisine with Polish, Indian and Italian foods courtesy of Billy Campbell, Margaret Rosyth, Dorothy Anderson, Kelly Sagar, Anna's Market, Orlandi's and The Ochil Fudge Company.

Piper Donald Cowan introduced the proceedings while musical accompaniment was provided by an enhanced ensemble of Clackmannanshire Brass Band and solo coronet Julie Johnstone.

Soloist Craig Miller later led the crowd in singing A World in Union and I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing before the audience rendered the national anthem.

Reverend Stuart Gray gave the grace, concluded with a Benediction, along with a vote of thanks and appreciation from all to Anna Forbes, chairperson, and the committee at Alloa Old People's Welfare – Friends of Greenfield.

A presentation of commemorative rose bushes was made by the beautifully costumed Jiyana, Anjali and Zinnia.

Mr Bob Dingwall, one of the people behind the event, told the Advertiser: “It was probably the foremost celebration in this county of the coronation weekend.”

A total of 83 people took part with a fully-seated buffet and a full hall, following an open-door event on the Saturday.

Mr Dingwall said the feedback has been welcome, people calling it a “wonderful day” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience”.

Alloa Old People's Welfare – Friends of Greenfield wanted to “thank one and all, for being part – as a community – of our special day, commemorating the coronation of King Charles III”.