Manning's School students Nahema Lyons (left), Corvia Samuels, and Oshinique Williams, look forward to the Curry Festival to be held at their school's sports field on Sunday, April 26. - Contributed

Western Bureau:

STACY WILSON, a past student of The Manning's School in Westmoreland, recently returned to his old stomping grounds and noticed a few changes.

With the exception of the basic structure of the school, there were several new additions that Wilson noticed, including a basketball court, volley ball court, and a few building extensions.

Favourite hang-out spot

One thing unchanged was his favourite hang-out spot: the steps of the gym which also 'doubled' as a guidance counsellor's office. Wilson used to enjoy drinking cold sodas and talking with friends there.

According to the alumnus, the new upgrades at the school were made possible by the proceeds of Westmoreland's Curry Festival, which he said has helped the school tremendously since its inception in 2001. He also credits the festival with increasing tourism revenues in Westmoreland.

"The curry festival is the biggest food festival on the island," Wilson said. "Most people will patronise the local bars and restaurants and even spend the weekend here. Sav (Savanna-la-Mar) hotels will be booked to capacity with many people coming from England, Kingston, Montego Bay, and the the United States of America."

Assisting vendors

Wilson volunteers at the curry festival, assisting the vendors during their busiest times. The participation of past students in the festival is not unusual, as many return to participate for and donate to its cause. At this year's festival, a singing duo, who were known around the island while attending Manning's School in the 1980s, will be reunited after 23 years and will perform at the festival on Sunday, April 26.

For first-time patrons, Wilson encouraged pacing oneself.

"Don't eat too much curry," he warned, "It'll make your belly run!" He also said anyone who goes to the festival cannot leave the celebration without trying the curry crab, a festival favourite.