Barnard Castle gears up for annual Meet weekend

THIS year's Barnard Castle Meet takes place over the bank holiday weekend and is predicted to be one of the best for years – provided the weather is kind.
There is a host of extra events including family activities, sports, a fun run, bands, as well as the usual favourites such as the unofficial boat race on the River Tees and, of course, the grand parade. Here is a run-down of what’s happening and where:

Thursday, May 25

Car treasure hunt from Barnard Castle Cricket Club, 6.15pm start.

Friday, May 26

Veterans' football match, Shaw Bank football pitch, 6.15pm.

Saturday, May 27

Craft Fair in the Methodist Church Hall, 10am onwards
Fun run, 10.30am for 11am start at Scar Top. Unofficial fun run around the woods.
Boat Race, starts 2pm, at the County Bridge.
Comedy night (see Witham box on the left of the page) at the Witham, 7pm.

Sunday, May 28

Pet show at Scar Top, 10.30am.
Family sports day at Scar Top, 12.30pm. Party time bouncy castle and a bull ride. Face painting and kids sports, such as egg and spoon and sack races, are among the other activities.
Live music in Barney pubs – Box of Frogs at the Commercial, 2pm; Toni Sidgewick at the Old Well, 2pm; Los Capitanes at the Three Horse Shoes, 4pm; The Banned at 12 Bar Blues, 6pm; The Rumoured at the Coach and Horses, 8pm.

Monday, May 29

Barnard Castle Meet’s grand parade, starts at 1pm at Glaxo Car Park. Arrive at noon for judging. Along with the regular floats and walking groups, the Meet committee has arranged for fire-eaters and stilt walkers to join the parade.
Free family fun day at Scar Top, 11am to 4pm. Bounce-a-Mania, Punch and Judy and other activities.
Live music in Barney pubs – The Norgaards at the Bluebell, 3pm; Gary Grainger at the Commercial, 5pm.