An Argyll village is preparing to celebrate its woolliest residents at its first ever sheep festival.
Dalmally, south of Oban, is hosting the event on Saturday to coincide with the annual blackface ram auction, known as a “tup sale”, at Dalmally Mart.
The highlight will be the Wool Sack Race, a test of strength and speed in which teams of four competitors carry a large, full wool sack across the village shinty field competing for glory – and a prize.
There will also be activities for families and local arts and crafts.
Louisa MacDougall, festival co-ordinator, said: “Sheep farming remains central to Dalmally’s landscape and culture, with the autumn tup sale a key event in the Scottish farming calendar. The auction brings the best of the blackface breed, as well as hundreds of visitors, to the little village every year.
“The festival has been set up to welcome these visitors and mark the occasion of the sale, raising funds for community groups, such as the local primary school and playgroup, who are hosting a cafe, children’s craft stall and sheep-themed games.”
Wool is set to be a big feature of the day, with spinning demonstrations, an earth loom, and plenty of hands-on woolly experiences.
The sheep theme will be explored further at the baking stall, which is appealing for donations, and offering a prize for the best sheepish creation.
Anyone interested in having a stall or entering a team, or who would like to know more about the event, should go to
ww.facebook.com/dalmallysheepfestival
, or contact Mrs MacDougall on 01838 200724.
