Teams from throughout Ayrshire are being invited to demonstrate their pulling power at Cumnock Highland Games this month.

Teams of six are invited to enter the Tug-o- War competition, with a first prize of £100 up for grabs for the strongest team on the day - Sunday 22nd August 2010.

"The Tug-o-War is an ancient tradition and one we want to keep alive here in Ayrshire," explains Jim McMillan, Secretary of Cumnock Highland Games. "Last year, sports clubs, pub teams and groups of friends from in and around Cumnock all took part, with the rugby club taking the honours.

"2010 is Cumnock's 500th year as a burgh, so to mark the anniversary we're inviting teams from all over the surrounding areas to join us for the day and show us what they're made of. It's a fun event, and an opportunity to take to the field with some of the world's top 'heavy' athletes - though rest assured they won't be competing in the tug-o-war! " The Cumnock Highland Games take place on Sunday 22nd August at Broomfield Park, Cumnock and this year will feature traditional heavy competitions, pipe bands and displays, stalls and rides, the Golden Lions Parachute Display team and a flypast of a Dakota aircraft. There is also a Tattoo on the evening of 21st August with live music, entertainment and fireworks.

Anyone interested in entering a team for the Tug-o-War should contact William Salmond on telephone 01290 420516.

www.cumnockhighlandgames.org