Thousands of people gathered in Inverness yesterday to celebrate their team’s historic Scottish Cup victory.
The sun shone and the bells rang out for Inverness Caledonian Thistle as they returned to the north to proudly show off the silverware.
Crowds started gathering on the streets shortly after 2pm, eager to get the best place to see Caley Thistle on their cup parade.
While fans bought huge flags from street traders, Inverness Town House showed its colours by flying a Caley Thistle flag from its rooftop pole.
The crowds at Ness Bridge got excited when at 3.15pm, an open top bus rolled into view and turned down Ness Walk, towards the cathedral.
A few cheers went up to the amusement of the tourists on board the tour bus, who gamely waved back at the crowds.
Then just minutes later another red bus was spotted coming down newly reopened Bank Street, with a streak of blue visible on the top deck.
The players jumped up and down with joy, passing the cup around and waving to the crowds lining the streets.
Bottles of champagne were also visible as the celebrations moved through the city.
The fans followed as headed towards Inverness Cathedral, where the bells rang out in the team’s honour.
The party continued at the Northern Meeting Park, where local favourites Scooty and the Skyhooks entertained the revellers while they waited for the team to arrive.
Inverness provost Alex Graham brought the cup out to massive cheers, which continued as manager John Hughes introduced his backroom team and players.
He told the audience that the turnout was “absolutely fantastic”.
Clearly enjoying themselves, the players danced and chanted in celebration and were then sprayed with a bottle of champagne by player Ryan Christie.
Out in the crowds, long-time fans were delighted to see the spectacle. Children were hoisted on top of parents’ shoulders to get a better view of their heroes.