Helmsdale Games' plans for big 40

Helmsdale Highland Games celebrates a big anniversary this year and organisers are going all out to make sure the event will be extra special.

The Gathering is marking its official 40th year on August 15 - although it is thought it was initially established around 1890.

And enterprising managers are planning lots of exciting twists to the traditional format.

The first to be announced is that former Helmsdale Primary School pupils who turn 40 this year have all been invited to serve as a Games chieftain this year.

Traditionally just one chieftain presides over the games, although former chieftains join in the parade to the ground.

Long standing games secretary Fiona Sutherland said invitations had already gone gone out.

“Although many of those involved live away, most have kept strong connections with Helmsdale and we hope to see them all in August,” she said.

And, in conjunction with the group chieftains idea, the Games is posing the interesting question – What do you call a group of Chieftains?

Mrs Sutherland said: “We think this is quite an unusual concept so welcome your ideas. We will put the best three options to a winning vote.”

See the Games’ Facebook page for more information.

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