The event celebrated it's 30th anniversary this year, but there was no sign of it waning in popularity as interested spectators and participants from across the globe attended.

And the committee got their wish for better weather, as there was no repeat of the rain which dampened spirits at last year's event, forcing the annual dancing competition to finish early for the first time its history.

Visitors to this year's Games were treated to a host of exciting attractions, from traditional events such as the caber toss, tug-o-war and dancing competitions; to the crowing of the Rose Queen, displays by bagpipers, the Special Needs Games and children's races and fancy dress.
Special guest and chieftain for the day was Austin Powers look-a-like Brian Allanson, who wowed the crowds with his unique brand of comedy and striking fashion sense.

Organiser Robina Addison was delighted by the town's response to the event.

She said: "It went really well. There were about 5,000 people there, which is up on last year, and the events went very well.

"People came from far and wide. There were 21 Japanese students who came to the event from Edinburgh, and we had people from Australia and Canada there.

"We're all very pleased with the result of the day."

The Games introduced a new event this year, with athletes from the Basque country travelling to the town to demonstrate sheaf tossing, a sport where competitors use a pitchfork to throw a bag of straw over a horizontal bar placed above their heads.

Robina said the event was well received by locals, but she had hoped there would be a few more local competitors.

"The sheaf tossing was novel and went down well. We were hoping some of the locals would have a go, but the sheafs were heavy. We got a local farmer to make them up and I carried them back – they were very heavy, about 16lb in weight.

"The Basque people thoroughly enjoyed their visit – and they tried out as novice heavyweights for some of the events. One of their guys even managed the caber toss first time!

"I wouldn't be surprised if they came back – they really enjoyed the Scottish people. I got four kilts for them as well."

Unusually, the tug-o-war did suffer a delay after the rope – which has been used since the Games were revived 30 years ago – snapped on the first pull. It was quickly repaired to allow the event to take place, but Robina said there would be a new rope in place for next year.

Robina also paid tribute to everyone who helped put on the games, particularly John Fraser for organising the Special Needs Games, Jim Brown MBE, Alan Sim and piping convener, Jim MacDonald.

Planning is now under way for next year's event, but Robina is hoping to lure some young blood onto the committee to help bring the games on in the future and introduce some new ideas.

Anyone interested in getting involved with the Games should contact Robina at the Printshop on 672888.