Fencers from across Scotland will cross swords in Moray later this month during the most northerly competition of its kind in the UK.
Around 100 top-ranking experts of the epee, from as far afield as Shetland and Edinburgh, are preparing for battle in Elgin Duellist Fencing Club’s Highland Open Tournament.
The gathering will take place at Elgin High School – and will feature men’s and women’s competitions.
Five members of the local outfit will take part, with Charlie Broughton seeking to regain the Men’s Foil title he first won in 2014.
Organiser, Robin Paterson, said: “This is the fourth time we have hosted this competition, and we look forward to welcoming fencers from throughout Scotland.
“For our Elgin Duellist fencers, this will be either their first taste of fencing at this high level or an opportunity to try and improve on their result from last year.
“Either way, the competition will hopefully be a fantastic experience for them.”
The event is making a special effort to appeal to primary school children by offering free taster sessions in the sport, using a plastic epee.
In last year’s final, Culloden Fencing Club’s Tom Hoffman narrowly defeated Edinburgh’s Calum Johnston by 15-14.
Mr Paterson described the climactic face-off as “thrilling”.
The competition begins on Saturday, October 29, with events running over the weekend.
Saturday sessions will take place at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm and on Sunday at noon, 1pm and 2pm.
Fencers do not need to book a place in advance, but more information is available from Mr Paterson on 01343 541302, after 7pm.