Editor – As Chair of Bute Highland Games, I would like to offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s Games such a memorable day. To our volunteers, sponsors, local businesses and, of course, everyone who bought a ticket and came along to cheer, clap and enjoy the spectacle: thank you. The sun was shining, the crowds were in great spirits, and our competitors gave us a fabulous show from start to finish, bringing energy, skill and professionalism to every event. Our Chieftain, Maureen Beattie OBE, was superb throughout the day, presenting prizes, cheering on competitors and gamely posing for what must have felt like hundreds of photographs.
Behind the colour, music and excitement of Games day sits a huge amount of work, particularly for a small community like ours. The event depends entirely on the dedication of a resolute band of volunteers who give their time, energy and good humour to bring it all together. Unlike some other games, we do not receive financial support from the local council; in fact, we must pay to use the park and facilities such as the grandstand, litter collection and licences for the road race. On top of that, it costs thousands of pounds to hire marquees, support the associations that oversee athletics, pipe bands and Highland dancing, and cover prize money, trophies, medical provision, catering and many other essential costs. We work hard to keep ticket prices as low as possible while still breaking even, so that we can begin planning next year’s Games with confidence. I sincerely hope everyone who attended felt they enjoyed excellent value for money.
Next year’s Games will take place on Saturday 21 August, so please do put the date in your diary. We would be delighted to welcome you back for another wonderful day of competition, community spirit and Highland tradition at Bute Highland Games.
