Fair City venue is set for annual net event Scottish Open tournament at Perth’s North Inch

More than 100 teams will descend on Perth’s North Inch this weekend for the Scottish Open Volleyball tournament.

Event organisers have been ramping up preparations in the last couple of days with 36 courts being pitched on the park.

Started in 1985, the Fair City spectacle is now Britain’s largest volleyball event with local and international squads prepared for action.

This year’s overseas competitors again see the regulars from the Faroe Islands, the Belgian men from Leuven and a Bulgarian entry.

The weekend action is always a highlight in the schedule of tournament director David Munro (67).

He said: “Perth Volleyball is very proud to be able to organise such an event year on year with very limited volunteer help.

“Thankfully local teams play a major part in the setting up and dismantling/ clearing up after the event.

“The main reason for the tournament’s popularity is that it is unique in the UK due to its friendly nature.

“It takes place after the volleyball

The Scottish Open Volleyball tournament welcomes large crowds to Perth season has ended and gives teams the of teams in each category. opportunity to let their hair down in “And we are now regularly having a fun way. over 100 teams coming every year.”

“That can be seen with the number Elite competitors to raw beginners of teams who turn up in fancy dress. will be on show at an event which

“Due to it being an open tournament caters for all. we have no restrictions on the number There are a number of local teams from Perth, Dundee and Fife competing across the range of seven categories of competition.

“The main component of the tournament is that it caters for all ages and abilities from very competent teams to raw beginners,” David said.

“The Saturday competition attempts to keep local teams apart from each other so that they are competing against new faces.

“And the Sunday competition divides into two levels in each category with a consolation level for the teams who have failed to make the cut.

“It brings major footfall to the city with teams spending money in local shops, eating and drinking establishments as well as local night clubs.”

Ahead of the weekend, David is keeping his fingers crossed that forecast sunshine makes an appearance.

And he is also hoping Perth people will get behind the event and turn out in force to show their support.

David said: “Some teams bring their own supporters but the Perth public have also shown their interest in coming along to watch.

“It is a unique spectacle, especially on the Saturday morning when everyone is fresh and keen on all 36 courts.”