Popular programme of summer ceilidhs back under way in Dingwall, Ross-shire
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
SUMMER ceilidhs which raise funds for a Christmas dinner for Dingwall’s senior citizens are under way again at the town’s National Hotel.
Organiser Peter Angus, who last year was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community, proudly claims the Highland Fling which has a ten-week run during the summer season is one of the longest running traditional musical events of its kind in Scotland as it enters its 42nd year.
“We had a great turn out [recently] including a bus party of Italian tourists who were in fact deaf and that was probably a first for the Highland Fling. Neverthless, they clearly enjoyed themselves and of course we had our regular audience from the local community.”
First up was the InverRossAccordion and Fiddle Group supported by piper Ellie Ferguson and the Wilson Highland dancers.
“We also had The Nairn Speldings who are part of the Nairn Ceilidh Group and they enjoyed themselves so much they will be returning on July 31,” Mr Angus said.
He is a key member of the Fire Brigade Community Group, which runs the Dingwall gala, and has been involved with the Highland Fling since the very beginning.
He said: “It all began when we saw visitors outside the town house looking for something to do. We got some dancers and a piper and Christine Matheson played the accordion for the visitors and the Highland Fling just grew from there.
“These are great evenings and we would appeal to the public and tourist operators in Dingwall to tell their guests about the ceilidhs and come along and support us.
“Ceilidhs like these are few and far between and we are very lucky that we have a network of musicians, pipers and dancers who give their services free. Proceeds all go towards the senior citizens’ Christmas party which is held in the National Hotel.”
Donald Wilson, who is chairman of Nairn Ceilidh Group and a member of the Nairn Speldings, said: “It was a pleasure for us to perform at the Highland Fling. Our group depends on bands like The Inver Ross Accordion and Fiddle Group so it was nice for us to put something back.
“Like our group, Peter and his committee depend on volunteers and of course the support they receive from the National Hotel is great. These ceilidhs are an institution and part of the fabric of the community.”
Grandfather-of-three Peter (72) is a drummer with the Inver Ross band and MCs the ceilidhs in his own inimitable style. His skills with sound systems are much in demand in Dingwall. He is vice-chairman of the Seaforth Highlanders Regimental Association and sets up the PA for the town’s Armistice Day service.
He said: “The ceilidhs are a great night. We are always looking for artists to perform.
“It can give them a springboard to get stage experience and possibly a future in music.”
