Ben Hendry
Well-wishers from across Moray gathered at the summit of a legendary landmark to celebrate the Queen’s special milestone.
Children and grandparents alike took advantage of the mild spring evening to watch as an impressive beacon was lit on Elgin’s Ladyhill in tribute to the long-serving monarch.
Eight-year-old Iona Jack was among the excited crowd who took in the spectacle, along with her 11-year-old sister Abigail and mum Pamela.
Iona said she and her primary four classmates at New Elgin Primary School had been preparing for the big day by holding a cake competition in honour of the Queen, and had begun the morning by singing “happy birthday” to her.
Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Grenville Johnston, enlisted the help of Explorer Scouts from Elgin and Fochabers to build and light the 10ft beacon.
Lieutenant Colonel Johnston paid tribute to the royal family’s connections with Moray, and said he “felt very strongly” that the region should stage its own celebration to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday.
The fire began to crackle at 8.15pm and within 10 minutes flames were shooting into the sky and smoke was soaring across Elgin.
The evening took an unexpected turn when a fire engine raced to the hill shortly after, with its sirens blaring.
Firefighters had received a call about a “suspect” blaze, but after being assured the fire was being properly supervised they departed.
