It has the reputation of being one of the wettest festivals in Scotland, but the organisers of Morvern Highland Games and Gala Week remain hopeful of a great event, no matter the weather.
Kicking off this coming Saturday, on July 13, Morvern Games and Gala Week, the self-styled “Most Scenic Highland Games in Scotland” often highlights just how wet life can get on the games field.
Despite consecutive years seeing competitors take to the field in pouring rain – while pipe bands ran for cover – nothing has deterred the organisers’ determination to put on a great event for residents and tourists.
Megan Whyte, from Lochaline, who is in charge of drawing up the programme, said: “We try to put on as many events as possible in the week of the games, and we never, ever consider cancelling because of rain.
“Families come back to see their families, and tourists come every year at the same time. We just want to put on a show for them – whatever the weather.
“There have been some years where the sun has shone, but funnily enough, most people remember the rain. Probably because they need to huddle together in the beer tent and just nip out when they need to take part in a competition.”
Organiser Riona Whyte, whose family have lived in Lochaline for generations, added: “Some people say: ‘Why don’t you cancel if there is a lot of rain?’ – and some years the rain has been exceptional.
“But I say: “Why should we? We live on the West Coast, rain is to be expected.”
“One year it rained and blew so much there was nothing for it, other than to get on and make the most of it. It was probably one of the best years for people getting together and relaxing.”
In addition to the many outdoor events on the schedule, Morvern Games and Gala Week also has some unusual indoor events for those attending this year, including a musical evening in a rarely used church.
St Columba’s Chapel, built in 1838 on the site of the ancient Drimnin Castle, will host a concert as part of Gala Week 2019 on July 15.
Other events include a shinty match, bingo, and garden visits.