Men of Lonach mark historic hat-trick

EVERY year, for almost 200 years, the Lonach Highlanders of Strathdon have marched through their neighbourhood dressed in full Highland regalia, armed with long pikes.

They set out on the fourth Saturday in August to continue a tradition that began in 1823 in the Aberdeenshire community of Bellabeg.

It was then that the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society was formed to preserve highland culture and promote community spirit and benevolence. And it’s a spectacle that has drawn visitors from all over the world, including Hollywood’s Elite.

The Highlanders will march again this Saturday.

Among their ranks will be three generations of one family who can trace their connection to Lonach, right back to the society’s inception.

Farmer George Gordon, 69, followed in the footsteps of generations of his forebears to become a member, taking part in his first march in 1964, aged just 16.

In 1991 his son Charles joined the ranks. And last year George’s grandson, Bradley Joss, joined him aged 16. Bradley’s father, Kevin, is also a Lonach Highlander.

The Highlanders will create a new landmark this year by taking part in the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

“Lonach has been part of my whole life,” explains George. “I remember from a young age watching my father taking part.

“I was really proud when both Charles and Bradley decided to join.”

Sir Billy Connolly who, until 2014, owned nearby Candacraig House, brought a string of showbiz pals to the Lonach Gathering and Games including the late Robin Williams, Steve Martin, Ewan McGregor and Dame Judi Dench.

“Welcoming all those famous visitors was a special part of the history of Lonach,” recalls George.

“Dame Judi was really down to earth. When a young girl asked her mum, who was speaking to Judi, ‘Who’s the auld wifie?’ she went into in fits of hysterics.”