Tartan time for Airth as Highland Games arrives

The popular annual event, a highlight of the country’s Highland game season, takes place from 9.30am on Saturday in North Green Park and promises a colourful, fun packed day for all the family.

This year’s Games chieftain, Jimmy Kilday of Calder Fuels, West Calder, will preside over a full programme of traditional Highland games competitions, including heavy events, piping competitions for soloists, track and field athletics, cycling competitions, Highland dancing and the tug o’ war.

Event secretary Emma Gillanders said: “This year will feature many memorable sights, including kilted athletes, pipers, more than 120 Highland dancers and the chieftain’s parade.

“As one of the oldest games in Scotland, we pride ourselves on maintaining our identity and traditions while also offering lots to do for the family over the course of the day.

“We’ve had a lot of interest from all over the world, including families attending from USA, Canada, New Zealand and Europe, and are expecting thousands of visitors, which will make for a great atmosphere.

“A lot of hard work goes into making the games happen year-on-year and I’d like to thank all our volunteers, members, competitors and sponsors for their continued support.

“Their contributions help to make it a memorable day for everyone.”

The games will also welcome American television’s author and adventurer Rick Steves who will be spending the entire day with his film crew, documenting the event for his Rick Steves’ Europe.

Events get under way at 9.30am with the British open professional Highland dancing championship and the games will be officially opened at 1pm when Alloa and Bowmar Pipe Band pipe in the chieftain.

Visit www.airthgames.co.uk for more information.