Great efforts have been made to preserve all aspects of Scotland’s Highland Games, including their iconic sports.
The Scottish Government has pledged more than £145,000 through Event Scotland to support games across the country in recognition of the “positive economic impact” they have on communities.
Leagues have struggled to attract enough teams for events across Scotland, affecting teams such as Ballater-based StrathDee, Cornhill in Banffshire and Elgin in Moray.
They voted to reduce the size of teams from eight to six.
It was suggested the smaller teams, and smaller combined weights – from 725g to 520g – would help attract new participants.
Scott Fraser, a Grampian Games Association representative of the Scottish Highland Games Association, said it was “not a definite solution” but more of a trial.
Its impact is now unlikely to be felt until 2021.
He said: “Hopefully it can attract more teams to the fold and inspire more people to get involved.
“It is a great sport – and one a lot of people don’t realise they can do.”
The association, alongside a development officer for the region, are working hard to inspire the next generation to take part in Highland Games.
