It’s all fun and Games
Those living in Shotts are getting ready to let the games begin!
The Games will take place on Saturday, June 2 in Hannah Park, home of Shotts Bon Accord FC.
The Chieftain’s Parade will leave from the Station Hotel, Dykehead, around 12.30pm marching along Station Road and Shottskirk Road to Hannah Park where Chieftain Douglas McLean will perform the official opening of the Games.
The gates at Hannah Park are open from 8.30am to accommodate the large number of entries for the Highland dancing competitions which begin at 9am.
The pipe band competitions will begin at noon, involving over 20 performances. All other events take place after the official opening. The traditional heavy events are always popular involving five disciplines, all requiring great strength, control and expertise.
These are throwing the 16lb hammer, putting the 16lb shot, throwing the 28lb weight for distance, throwing the 56lb weight for height, and tossing the caber.
The finale involves the march past of all the bands with the Chieftain taking the salute. The mass bands play together to salute the Chieftain and then there is the presentation of prizes.
The organisation of the traditional Highland Games in Shotts would not be possible without the sponsorship of North Lanarkshire Council and members of the Games Association visited the council headquarters to say thanks.
As well as a cultural grant of £5,000 which helps fund the pipe band championship, the council also provide invaluable assistance through various departments to prepare the track and field at Hannah Park, and provide equipment and personnel for the day of the Games.
Robert Williams, chairman of the Highland Games Association is pictured above (third left) accepting a cheque for £5,000 from Provost Jean Jones.
NL Leisure also give assistance with the school sports programme.
The committee were also presented with a cheque for sponsorship from North Lanarkshire Bank.
Entry to the Games will be £5 for adults, £4 concessions, and children £2.
A souvenir programme costs £3. Payment is made at the gates on the day of the Games.