Record bid by games
Hopes are high that record numbers of visitors will flock to mark the 150th anniversary of the city’s flagship highland games.
Organisers say they hope to breach the 8,000 mark for audiences at the Stirling Highland Games this August.
The annual event already attracts in the region of 5500 visitors, but the committee hope they can smash the total if weather conditions are on side.
At a recent meeting, the Stirling Highland Games committee discussed plans for this year’s spectacular, on Saturday, August 15.
Plans are afoot to boost the event with the addition of a new contest for competitors, as well as an exhibition marquee to showcase snippets of the 150 year history.
The event was founded in 1870 under the guidance of president James Graham, 4th Duke of Montrose, chairman Col McPherson and Steward Charles Murray, the 7th Earl of Dunmore.
Local businesses and organisations have shown their backing but hopes are high that grant funding will help boost celebrations in this anniversary year.
Stirling Highland Games committee president Matt McGrandles, said:“The weather plays its part and is one of the event parameters we can’t control but we continue to add new attractions to the schedule each year so we can reach a larger demographic.
“Our food and drink experience has gone from strength to strength since 2015 as we encourage more of Scotland’s award-winning producers to Stirling each year which in turn brings the foodie crowds looking for an affordable day out.”
Opportunities are still available for businesses to get involved in the games.
Further information is available by calling 01786 273556 or visiting the website at www. stirlinghighlandgames.com.