CAMPAIGNERS HAD a carnival in Western Road Park, Auchterarder, yesterday as they awaited comrades trapped elsewhere on buses.

There was a good-natured party in the park despite rumours the protest march was off, then on and then off again, and a huge cheer at 11.55 am when a loud-hailer announcement insisted it would definitely take place.

By mid-day, an hour before the march was meant to take place, more than 1000 people were dancing, playing instruments and and setting the world to rights.

Organisers appealed for patience after it became clear events would be delayed.

One announcement said, « We will get round eventually but its going to take some time to get in. That's the position at the moment. Let's have a party! »

Nothing could dishearten the colourful crowd, who coped with roads blockades by activists and police, constant misinformation and heavy showers.

Everything from decorated floats to bizarre costumes – including mummies, a mermaid and a huge gang of clowns – was in evidence and there were cheers as each bus arrived.

Parking quickly became a significant difficulty for locals as every available space filled up throughout the entire Lang Toon. In many places, cars even parked with their noses pointing at the side of the road, forcing other vehicles to drive round them.

The march eventually kicked off in a riot of sound and colour that brought residents onto the street to watch.

And those venturing from their homes were mostly delighted by the friendly atmosphere as the march moved past at a stately pace, with more than one admitting they were tempted to join in.

Marjory Murray, of Drummond Avenue, said, « I am sorry about all the disruption elsewhere on the roads and in Stirling because I think this group is very well-meaning and sincere. »

John Dewar, of Mare Park, was also enjoying the spectacle, saying, « At the moment I am very positive about the experience. It seems to have passed fairly peacefully and pleasantly, with most folk I've seen very jovial. »

John Simpson, of Drummond Avenue, said, « I was concerned when they cancelled the march and then it was put on again.

« The organisation must have been stood down at one time, only to start again. However, I think it has gone so much better than I thought it ever would. »

But not all residents on Orchil Road felt able to relax.

Moira Leitch said, « This just isn't my Auchterarder anymore.

« I chose to move here to retire eventually.

« I hope the town will never see anything like this again. »

However, Mrs Leitch praised the efforts of the police saying, « The security has been fantastic. »

As the march slowed to a standstill, musicians and dancers kept crowds entertained as all waited, largely unaware of the trouble involving a number of protestors that was brewing.

By 4 pm the mood had changed as the crowds were asked to retreat down Orchil Road as news was passed back of a crush developing at the police cordon.

Perth woman Susan Scott stayed with an Auchterarder friend so she could take part.

She said, « I'm not just here for the protest. I'm here to see for myself what it's all about and all the stuff that you see on the news.

« Obviously there are hard-core elements among the protestors but there are also problems with the police and their tactics. »