Final preparations are being made in advance of a north-east village’s annual Highland Games.
Now in its 22nd year, the popular event takes place this Saturday in the small village of Cornhill, five miles south of Portsoy, with organisers getting ready to welcome thousands of elite competitors and visitors to the region.
As a key event in the regional calendar, it draws in people from all across the north-east and, in the past, has attracted tourists from as far as Canada and Germany.
The Games’ future seemed in doubt two years ago after the previous organisers stepped down, but the efforts of a new committee have ensured it’s business as usual.
Vivien Rae, marketing and PR coordinator for the Cornhill Highland Games, is excited at the rising reputation and development of the festivities.
She said: “Last year was our first event as a new committee and we were delighted with the success of the day and the many visitors that flocked to Cornhill to enjoy the event, and we hope to build on this success again this year.
“Our newly introduced 10k was well attended last year and we hope to attract more runners in 2019 as we establish the run as part of the programme of events.
“We have also increased the activities available for our younger visitors, with zorbs, a storytelling text and Mini Highland Games competition.
“We are, of course, grateful to the many sponsors and supporters for their generosity in allowing us to continue with the Games and extend the programme offering.”
The Highland dancing competition starts at 10.30am with all other events commencing at 11.00am.
Pipe Bands from Buckie, Portsoy and Strathisla will be playing at various times during the day and a variety of stalls and caterers will be available alongside the activities.