YOUNGSTERS were thrilled when a local fire crew attended East Linton's stay-at-home gala at the weekend to help hand out goody bags and join in the fun.

The gala committee were forced to cancel the annual day, due to take place on Saturday, June 13, but decided instead to hold a socially distant event instead.

With the theme of Masquerade, locals decorated their homes and planned to have picnics in their gardens and wear masks.

Sadly the rain meant most picnics were unable to go ahead but the local fire crew arrived and drove through the village streets handing out treats provided by the committee.

Children were encouraged to draw pictures of a fire engine and put them on display at their homes to attract the firefighters' attention and families turned out to wave to the crew with some some lucky youngsters even given the chance to climb into the fire engine cab.

Station Commander David Ward, of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We were delighted that members of our crew at East Linton Fire Station could take part in their community gala.

"With so many gala days and local events cancelled, it’s great to see people come together in this way to try and create something positive for the local community, and children especially. The day was a success, and our firefighters were delighted to be able to show their support and gratitude to the local community during this testing period.”