ANYONE eager to get involved in the resurrection of Elgin Highland Games is being urged to pipe up and head along to a meeting.
A group of musicians and athletics leaders have stepped forward in a bid to revive the event, which was last held in Moray’s capital eight years ago.
However, they want to hear from anyone who may be interested in joining them.
A meeting to form a committee will be held on Wednesday night in Flanagans bar, at 48a High Street in Elgin, starting at 8pm.
Forres Pipe Band member George McPhee said interest had been generated since a story appeared in last week’s ‘Northern Scot’, detailing the plan to bring the games back in 2013.
"We had as good a response as can be expected for this stage in the game," said Mr McPhee.
"I have had interest from people speaking to me on the street, and there has been some interest from people who have been involved in previous Highland Games.
"It’s early days but it’s encouraging. There seems to be a lot of people willing to help and there is an interest. The next stage is the committee stage, and if we get that kicked off, then we can move on from there."
It is hoped that if the games are reintroduced, then the event would begin with a massed pipe band parade starting on High Street.
Between eight and 10 bands would then march down High Street, past the council buildings, and across the A96 into Cooper Park.
Cooper Park would then host the games.
The most recent highland games in Elgin, in 2004, were held at the Morriston playing fields.
Elgin Highland Games has a long history in the town, stretching back well over a century.
Newspapers in 1878 reported its reinstitution at the Market Green in Elgin, and in 1880, it was highlighted that 2,500 people watched the games in a field at Ashgrove.
In 1925, the Elgin Highland Games were revived after a gap of 12 years – probably due to World War One – and 3,000 people paid for admission. Then in 1927, the games were held at Borough Briggs and enjoyed a record attendance.
Between 1931 and 1970, the Highland Games in Elgin were incorporated into Elgin’s gala week festivities, and then in 1970 they were moved to Morriston playing fields. They remained at Morriston until the event folded in 2004.
Sponsors, as well as volunteers, are needed. Anyone interested should phone Mr McPhee on 07708 546701.
