On 26th April 2025, we hosted our third ‘Free for All’ community event, celebrating local services, community groups, and public engagement through a vibrant and inclusive gathering. The event provided a showcase of free taster sessions, support services, and activities available across Arran.
This year’s event held special significance as it marked the 60th anniversary of Arran CVS. Depute Provost John Sweeney opened the day with welcoming remarks and spent time engaging with attendees and community representatives.
The event offered island residents the opportunity to connect with a wide range of community groups, explore volunteering opportunities, and learn more about local services. Activities on the day included sporting sessions, yoga and massage tasters, and drumming workshops. Health and wellbeing were a major focus, with various health information stands, general health checks, and displays from local emergency services. There were also arts and crafts activities, face painting and entertainment for children. Amongst others, Arran library bus, the Community Council, North Ayrshire active schools, Heather Lodge, the National Trust and KA Leisure, who were a huge help with setting up and tidying away, were all in attendance.
Musical entertainment was provided by the Arran Allsorts Children’s Choir, the Arran Pipe Band, Taiko drummers, and the Arran Brass Band, adding a festive atmosphere throughout the day.
A free buffet (funded by North Ayrshire Council, the Co-op and Arran CVS) was available to all attendees, alongside refreshments served for us by Arran Baptist Church. A community food-sharing area, stocked with donations from local groups and organisations, further demonstrated the spirit of cooperation and mutual support.
Approximately 300 community members attended, making the day a success in raising the profile of volunteering, gathering public feedback, and highlighting the vital contributions of community groups to the wellbeing of Arran’s residents.
