Generations of north-east villagers took to the streets yesterday to keep alive a fishing community tradition which stretches back 175 years.
The annual Cairnbulg temperance walk originally started in 1842 in an effort to combat alcohol abuse. This year’s procession also stopped to commemorate those villagers lost at sea.
The walk, which follows the Inverallochy parade on Christmas Day, is a symbolic protest against the evils of drink and abuse.
When it first came into being, members of the band which traditionally leads the procession, were required to sign a temperance pledge.
In recent years, the focus on abstinence from alcohol has been replaced by community spirit and the event is recognised as a celebration of the village itself.
The event is led by Inverallochy’s flute band who place a wreath at the war memorial each year.
For the first time, the band also stopped briefly at the new fishermen’s memorial statue, erected in March, to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives at sea.
Local man, David Buchan, said: “The walk stopped and the band played Will Your Anchor Hold – it was a really touching moment. It’s a memorial to all the villagers lost at sea.”
The Cairnbulg walk is usually held on New Year’s Day, but the event is postponed when January 1 falls on a Sunday.
Local councillor Brian Topping described the walk as a “fantastic” sign traditions were not being lost in the north-east.
He added: “I’ve been to a few of the walks over the years. People come out of their houses to follow them and use them to meet up. It’s really good.”
