New Year arrived with a bang across the north-east with spectacular firework shows and parties ushering in 2017.
Thousands of people flocked to an eclectic series of events, ranging from the traditional Stonehaven fireballs show to a more modern celebration of the festivities in the shape of Ellon’s Gig at The Brig.
In Aberdeen, the city centre filled with revellers who were keen to see in the New Year.
The middle section of the famous Union Street saw people packed together shoulder to shoulder with many hundreds more flocking into the Christmas Village attraction on Union Terrace.
Granite City fireworks fans were left disappointed in November when the local authority was forced to cancel the planned Guy Fawkes display at the last minute, due to windy weather.
But a bright and colourful display left the iconic domes of His Majesty’s Theatre and St Mark’s Church silhouetted beautifully with many applauding after the show had finished.
In the Mearns, Stonehaven geared up for one of Scotland’s most famous Hogmanay celebrations with volunteers swinging balls of fire through the streets.
The tradition is believed to date back to the 19th century, with the event watched by police and first aiders to ensure safety.
Ross Milne, chairman of the Stonehaven Fireballs Association, added the event had been “one of the best yet”.
He said: “We had a capacity crowd with everyone in really good spirits enjoying themselves.
“I think 2016 has been a pretty interesting year for a lot of people and, in some ways, people were keen to see the end of it.
“There was a really good mix in the crowd with a lot of overseas visitors too.”
The event costs around £10,000 to stage every year and Mr Milne said he was confident that a huge amount had already come in from the generous public.
In Ellon, would-be Dancing Queens were happy to Take a Chance on Abbamania – one of the leading tribute acts for the Swedish band.
Back for the fourth year, the Gig at the Brig event boasted tunes from the Ellon Royal British Legion Pipe Band.
Also performing were Emerald Sunday and Dundee four-piece Gleadhraich who entertained the crowd. And the celebration was rounded off with a fireworks display.
Wayne Baber, of Ellon Events, said that, while the numbers were down on last year, a “great time” was had by all.
