A DREAM has come true for Kilbarchan teenager Beth Caldow after she was named as this year’s Miss Lilias.

The prestigious title has been handed to 16-year-old Beth as a reward for her commitment to helping local Beaver and Scout groups, as well as sports clubs.

It means she will be the centre of attention when Kilbarchan’s annual Lilias Day celebrations take place on June 2.

And Beth, who attends St Benedict’s High School, in Linwood, will get the chance to meet Miss Lilias from 50 years ago, Fiona Jackson, who will be making a special appearance to celebrate half a century since the annual party was launched.

This year’s School Queen will be 11-year-old Ellie McGreish, while 15-year-old Archie Sandground, who is a member of St Columba’s Pipe Band, will be taking on the role of Kilbarchan’s most famous son, Habbie Simpson.

Susan Calcluth, Lilias Day committee member, said: “I know Beth has wanted to be Miss Lilias since she was a little girl, so she’s delighted to have been chosen.

“It will be fantastic for her to meet Fiona and it is always a special day for this village as we celebrate our rich history. We are looking forward to it.”

Lilias Day is the centrepiece of Lilifest – a month-long festival of events that will see visitors flocking to Kilbarchan over the coming weeks.

The headline event will be a performance by Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs, who will bring their classic funk and soul music to the Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre for a one-off gig on Thursday, May 31.

Other events will include the Kilbarchan Smile Gateway Garden Party on Sunday, May 27, as well as ceilidhs for tots and juniors, presented by Highland Hustle.

Meanwhile, history buffs can look forward to the launch of Helen Calcluth’s latest book Kilbarchan and the Handloom Weavers, covering the history of the village weavers from the 17th century to the 1950s.

For a full Lilifest programme, visit www.liliasday.co.uk.