Clouds gathered at the weekend to draw an end to a prolonged week of sunshine in Moray – but not before the annual Dufftown Highland Games had smashed all previous records.
More than 5000 people turned out at the 122nd games – including competitors from as far afield as North America, Spain and Russia.
“It was a great day and a fantastic atmosphere,” games chairwoman Linda Brown commented, adding: “The weather stayed glorious right until the end when a downpour arrived.”
Games chieftain Robert MacLennan received a special presentation after retiring with 27 years service under his belt, while Gordon Stewart was also recognised for his 39 years service to the games committee.
Over 200 pipers and drummers marched through the town to announce the start of the games with a record 12 bands taking part in the competition itself, the Towie District Pipe Band emerging with the prize for best presented.
Dancer Nina Skolovala from Russia won the beginners and 10 years over fling, swords and reel while Erin Forbes from Buckie won the Highland dancing primary four section.
Meanwhile around 1000 people turned out at Kinloss Barracks where the family day was also able to make the most of the fine weather.
On hand to remind people of the base’s pre-army history was the Morayvia Nimrod exhibit while the Lossiemouth RAFBF team were also on hand, raising almost £400 for the charity.
Heidi Dunning from 39 Engineer Regiment said: “The weather was really good and brought the crowds out – the Forres Osprey charity is the official charity of the 39 Engineer Regiment and £430 was raised for the group.”
Kippers where the theme nearby at Burghead where again hundreds turned out around the town’s harbour. Trade, craft and charity stalls were being browsed as Kippers where munched fresh from the bar-b-q.
The event was organised by Burghead in Bloom and included live music, a car boot sale and boat trips.