THE heart of the Highland capital was taken over by a colourful charity trail display at the weekend, with visitors from Ross-shire amongst hundreds turning out for the head-turning gathering.

All 23 statues from the Go Nuts Art Trail, which saw hand-painted squirrels placed across the Highlands to raise funds for the Highland Hospice, were gathered together for the public to enjoy in Falcon Square.

It was the last time the artworks, which formed the first art trail of its kind in the Highlands, were available to enjoy in a public space before being sent for repair and auctioned at a dinner event in November.

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Hospice events fundraiser Jenna Hayden said: “It was honestly incredible to see all 23 squirrels gathered together – and Falcon Square was the perfect venue for them.

“The square was buzzing with people all weekend, with many staying for hours to look at the detail on each squirrel. We really are overwhelmed with the level of positive feedback our sculptures have generated.

She added: “We are now focussing on our Go Nuts Dinner and Auction which will be held in a marquee at the Dairy at Daviot on November 23. As well as a truly unmissable evening of great food and entertainment from Rhythmnreel, all of the squirrels will be reunited again and up for auction on the night.”

Individually painted by a range of artists, the squirrels were introduced in June and became very popular – as people sought to complete the whole trail and snap pictures and selfies.

For information on booking your ticket for the Go Nuts Dinner and Auction click here.

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