The first Stirling Highland Games committee meeting of 2020 was held on Tuesday 21st January at the Ceangail CIC offices with several updates discussed about the 150 year anniversary event in August.
The President thanked his committee members for their contributions over the last 6 years since being part of the event and conveyed how positive he felt about their plans to celebrate #SHG150.
Although the event now regularly attracts over 5500 visitors annually, President Matt McGrandles hopes the weather is on their side this year so they can push the 8000 mark. “The weather plays its part and is one of the event parameters we can’t control but we continue to add new attractions to the schedule each year so we can reach a larger demographic. Our Food & Drink experience has gone from strength to strength since 2015 as we encourage more of Scotland’s award-winning producers to Stirling each year which in turn brings the foodie crowds looking for an affordable day out.”
The Committee confirmed that the event is on track but also that they plan to add a new competition event to the highland games as well as an exhibition marquee to showcase some of the research found from the last 150 years. It was about the same time of year in 1870 when the then Stirling Highland Games committee set about planning for their summer event. In the inaugural event, the Stirling Highland Games Officials were:
- James Graham 4th Duke of Montrose, President of the SHG Association;
- Col. McPherson, Chairman of the SHG Association; and
- Charles Murray 7th Earl of Dunmore, Steward.
Several businesses have shown real support of the event over the years including Specsavers Stirling, Active Stirling and Forth Valley Chamber but the committee is hoping their application to EventScotland this year will be approved, allowing them to create some additionality to their event celebrations.
There are still opportunities for businesses to get involved at the 150 year anniversary event on Saturday 15th August and enquiries can be made by calling the office on 01786 542550 or by visiting the Stirling Highland Games website at www.stirlinghighlandgames.com