Change of games chieftain marked in style

The skirl of the pipes could be heard in Monaltrie Park on Saturday as Ballater Highland Games organisers marked the 102nd birthday of the event’s chieftain, who celebrated almost 500 miles south at his home in Norfolk.

Captain Alwyne Farquharson, 16th laird of Invercauld, passed the chieftain’s role to great nephew Philip Farquharson, 40, on Saturday.

The war veteran’s service was celebrated with the playing of the pipes at a memorial stone at the home of the games, erected to celebrate his 70th year as chieftain in 2018.

Prior to the pandemic Mr Farquharson would travel north to Aberdeenshire every year for engagements, including the annual gathering at Braemar.

Braemar Castle is the Clan Farquharson seat.

Pipe Major James Cooper from Ballater and District Pipe Band played Invercauld House, the tune traditionally piped for the chieftain’s arrival on to the field on games day, before a short performance by young pipers Lewis Stewart and Craig Mitchell from the 47th Culter Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band.

Although this year’s games have been cancelled due to the pandemic Scott Fraser, vice-chairman of the Ballater Highland Games, said Saturday’s ceremony provided a chance for organisers and supporters to raise a socially-distanced glass to both the outgoing and incoming chieftain.

Mr Fraser said: “The fact that he is 102 is remarkable in itself, but the fact he has been out chieftain for 73 years and been at the games every year is just amazing.

“Philip will be seeing him tomorrow so he will see the videos of the event, which is very special.”