A man who was once pitted against Scotland’s high jump champion at the Forres Highland Games and who has worked tirelessly to encourage young people into piping and drumming has been chosen as this year’s chieftain.
John Channon, the chairman of the Forres and District Pipe Band, said he was honoured to have been picked for the role.
However, he admitted he would miss playing with the band on the day which last year won the trophy for deportment and dress.
Mr Channon, who lives in Dyke said: “I couldn’t believe it when I got the letter. I kept it to myself for a while and when I eventually did tell the band, they of course all already knew. It was the worst kept secret.”
“I really do consider this a great honour and I am really looking forward to the day and being able to meet the stallholders, visitors, those involved in organising the Games, the judges and adjudicators and of course the competitors. It’s a great day out and I am thrilled to be this year’s Chieftain.”
It was during the 1960s and 1970s that Mr Channon took part in the Forres Highland Games in the high jump and sprint.
He said: “I know the Forres Games well and not just via my association with the pipe band. For about 12 years, I took part in the high jump and sprint events. In 1972 I competed against Crawford Fairbrother in the high jump.
“He was the Scottish champion high jumper and that year he jumped a height of 6ft 4ins which beat me by a clear five inches. I’ll refrain from having a go this year.”
The Forres Highland Games will take place in Grant Park on July 6 and offers a fun afternoon for all the family.
For more information, visit www.forreshighlandgames.com.