Fantastic community effort
Rugrats playgroup took part in the procession from the Royal British Scotland Legion clubrooms to the Wellmeadow The 66th annual Braemar Day celebrations in Blairgowrie on Saturday have been hailed as a huge success.
Hundreds of people attended the all day event in the Wellmeadow, which is organised by the Blairgowrie and Rattray Braemar Association.
There was a packed programme of entertainment including a procession led by the Rattray Marching Band, and the massed pipe band parade with members of Blairgowrie, Rattray and District, Alyth and Coupar Angus pipe bands in the evening.
Dancers from the Linda Grant School of Dance, the Linda Tosh Dancers and Let’s Dance groups - as well as former Blairgowrie High School pupil Rachel McLagan’s Flings and Things - all performed for the delighted crowds while singers Karen Arnold and Rebecca and Jordanne also impressed.
There was a demonstration by youngsters from local combat sports organisation Evolution Combat Sports, workshops with Circus Sensible, and a market with stalls from local crafters, producers and clubs and organisations.
Blairgowrie and Rattray Citizen of the Year Sandy Thomson officially opened the celebrations. He said:“It is a great pleasure to have been invited here by the organising committee.
“This is the 66th Braemar Day and I think I have been to about 70 per cent of them; it has always been a highlight of the year.
“All that you see here today would not have been possible were it not for the dedication of the committee, a team of just five ladies who have done a remarkable job once again.”
Compere for the day Brenda Kerr also praised the committee, commenting:“They have been fundraising throughout the year to put on this free event for everyone.
“Thanks to the businesses in Blairgowrie and Rattray for supporting the event, and thanks to people of the town and the surrounding area for their fantastic support, it’s been amazing.”
One of the highlights of the day was the headline performance by talented duo Jordan Fox and Callum McHoul, which culminated with their storming version of Ed Sheeran’s ‘Castle on the Hill’accompanied by the spectacular fireworks display.
Committee member Helen Breen said:“It’s been an absolutely fantastic day with a great crowd, wonderful atmosphere and great weather, we couldn’t have asked for better, and the generosity of local people has been phenomenal.’’
Police Scotland said that there had been no arrests made during the event. Paw Patrol made an appearance
Back, from left, are Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Football Club members Robbie Watson, Max Pol, Harry Watson, Harley MacNaughton-Jones and Callum Cannon. Front, from left are Cavan MacGregor, Stewart Page, Archie Browning and Peter Rutherford Local lads Jordan Fox and Callum McHoul A fireworks display ended the night