Western Isles steps up fund-raising gears for Mòd

THE LOCAL organising committee for Mòd nan Eilean Siar 2016 has established a detailed plan of upcoming fundraising events in the lead up to October.

The Royal National Mod, which is the premier festival of Gaelic language and culture, will held in the Western Isles between October 14-22 2016, making this the sixth year it has been held on the Islands.

The last Mòd on the Western Isles was in 2011 and it attracted approximately 2,800 visitors and 2,500 residents also attended.

Convener of the local committee Norman A MacDonald said: ‘It is highly appropriate that the Mòd should return to the Western Isles as the whole ethos and thrust of the Mòd is to showcase and celebrate our rich language and culture.

‘Gaelic is still the community language of the islands and Mòd attendees are assured of a genuine Hebridean welcome in Stornoway this year.’

The planned schedule of fund- raising events is as follows:

Saturday May 21 – Bingo Night in Clan MacQuarrie Hall 7.30pm.

Friday May 27 - Cèilidh Dance in Leacklea, Harris 7.30pm.

Saturday June 4 – Soup and Pudding in Breasclete Hall 12pm - 2pm.

Tuesday June 14 – Friday June 17 – Summer Hamper in Western Isles Hospital 10am - 5pm.

Saturday 18 June - Auction and Cèilidh in Caladh Inn 7.30pm.

Friday June 24 – Tatties and Herring – Uig Community Centre – 7.30pm.

Friday July 1 – Soup amd Pudding in Newton Centre 12pm – 2pm.

Saturday July 9 – Bag pack, Raffle and Live Music in Co-op Stornoway 10am - 5pm.

Friday August 26 – Soup and Pudding in Newton Centre 12pm – 2pm.

Saturday September 3 – Soup and Pudding in Clan MacQuarrie Hall 12pm – 2pm.

Saturday September 10 – 5k Event in Castle Grounds 10am.