One of Aberdeenshire’s oldest and most popular Highland gatherings is returning for its 174th year.
This summer’s Lonach Gathering and Games, at Bellabeg near Strathdon, will mark the 300th anniversary of the 1715 Jacobite rebellion.
The gathering – which was started in 1823 and draws thousands of visitors every summer – will once again include the march of the Lonach Highlanders.
The ceremony involves about 220 local descendants of the Forbes, Wallace and Gordon clans, who arrive in the Lonach arena armed with Highland weaponry, including Lochaber axes.
It is considered to be the largest non-military march in the UK.
The games, on Saturday, August 22, will also feature piping competitions, Highland dancing, heavy competitions and other sporting events.
Organisers are currently hoping to attract local businesses to sponsor some of the activities.
Secretary of the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society, Jennifer Stewart, said: “The society was established to promote social and benevolent feelings among the inhabitants of Strathdon.
“Today our focus has evolved into supporting the local economy through the gathering and the visitors it attracts.
“Providing more opportunities for businesses to get involved in the gathering extends that support, while also generating income to help cover the event’s running costs.
“The costs involved in holding the gathering have increased. We’re not alone in this.”
She added that the event could not go ahead without the support of local residents.
“The volunteer support we get from the local community is incredible – we wouldn’t be able to stage such a successful event without their assistance,” she added.
In previous years, the event has attracted a clutch of high-profile celebrities who used to stay at Billy Connolly’s former Aberdeenshire home, Candacraig House.
Steve Martin, Ewan MacGregor and the late Robin Williams were all popular visitors.