Roaring Ahead

Published 14 Jul 2010 09:30

Warriors and WWII Aircraft at Cumnock Highland Games 2010

A vintage aircraft, a clan of highland warriors, fire dancers and music from an original five piece pipe and drum band once described as 'the Motorhead of folk' are amongst the many attractions lined up for this year's Cumnock Highland Games.

The Games, which take place on the evening of Saturday 21st August and the afternoon of Sunday 22nd August at Cumnock's Broomfield Park, were established in 2006 and have grown to become of the biggest events in East Ayrshire, drawing visitors, entertainers and competitors from throughout Scotland, the UK and overseas.

2010 will be the fifth Games, and with it also being the year of Cumnock 500, the Saturday evening Tattoo will have a distinctly medieval feel. Clan warriors from the renowned Clanranald Trust will be entertaining the crowds with weaponry displays. Music will come from Saor Patrol, whose unique brand of pipes and drum rhythms (often described as tribal, celtic rock) has wowed audiences at festivals across the USA, Europe, Asia and the UK. There will also be fire dancers and a fireworks finale.

And whilst Saturday will characterised by the roar of celtic warriors, on the Sunday an even louder roar will be heard throughout Cumnock as a vintage Dakota Aircraft descends over the town for a ceremonial fly past.

Built in 1942 in the USA and now part of the BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight), the Dakota ZA947 served with the Royal Canadian Airforce and the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough, and now enjoys her 'retirement' taking part in displays and air shows all over the country. On Sunday 22nd August she will descend to around 500ft and fly past Cumnock's Broomfield Park from the direction of the Barony A Frame.

Jim McMillan, Secretary of the Cumnock Highland Games Committee, commented: "The Dakota is a hugely important aircraft not just in the history of World War II but in later conflicts and in commercial aviation. We don't think there will have been one in the skies above Cumnock before - certainly not for a number of years, and never on ceremonial duties - so it will be a sight to behold. Plus, with 2010 also being the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, this is an opportunity for the town to pay its own tribute.

"We were also keen to mark the Cumnock 500 anniversary in this year's Games, and with the popularity of the Saturday Tattoo growing year on year, we are delighted to have Clanranald and Saor Patrol both performing on the night, bringing their own unique interpretations of Scotland's great heritage."

Other attractions at Cumnock Highland Games include the Golden Lions parachutists, numerous pipe and military bands, kids' entertainment, stalls and competitions in field, dance and music events.

Tickets will be available at the gate and cost £5 for each event (concessions and family tickets available).

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This article appeared in Cumnock Chronicle 14 Jul 10

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