Findhorn Village Challenge at James Milne Institute attracts 12 competing teams
TWELVE teams competed in a village quiz, more than quarter of a century since the annual contest was launched.
The Findhorn Village Challenge started by former resident Ted Stroud to bring villagers together in the winter months was initially a games night in the Royal Findhorn Yacht Club before being changed to the quiz in the James Milne Institute (JMI).
Findhorn Residents’ Association (FRA) won last year so it was up to them to organise this year’s event.
Chairman Sam Russell confirmed the 12 teams competing on Friday, March 1 were made up of around 65 people representing 11 groups in the village.
He said: “A highlight was the practical round which really puts participants’ skills to the test. Previous challenges have included decorating a cake, building a skiff from paper and making an outfit from newspapers. Last year, MIRO challenged teams to nominate team members to get kitted up for a rescue. This year we provided craft materials such as Play-Doh and pipe cleaners, and asked teams to model Findhorn.”
Eight rounds of questions included themes such as: Morayshire Miscellany; True or False; Shipping Forecast; and Constellations. The quiz was held on St David’s Day so the first round focussed on Wales and, to raise awareness of the FRA, there was also a round to identify photographs of committee members when they were young. Practical round judge and resident Jeanne Whitehead commended everyone’s creativity. Findhorn Village Conservation Company (TFVCC), with their model of a salmon fishing cobble, were victorious in the practical challenge as well as being overall winners of the event.
Sam added: “Their team included local loon and former chairman, Frank Allan. As a youngster he, and many other young men, worked the cobbles so, for him, the cobble really does depict Findhorn. Members of TFVCC were presented with the Findhorn Village Challenge shield and will take responsibility for organising next year’s event.”
FRA is responsible for organising the annual village fair, which funds enhancement activities like grass cutting, floral displays, Christmas lights, bonfire and fireworks displays.
Sam added: “I am very grateful to FRA volunteers who helped to organise and deliver a very entertaining evening.
“Another tradition is that the organisers serve refreshments during the course of the evening and I would like to say a big thank you to the Crown and Anchor for their donation of chips which were enjoyed by all.”
For more information on the FRA contact Sam on 07740763136.