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Chainsaw carver scoops top prize for second year running

Adam Murray carves his sculpture
Adam Murray carves his sculpture

Chainsaw carver Pete Bowsher proved quick on the saw as his sculpture of a cowboy took the top prize at a major Highland competition.

It was the Moffat-based man’s seventh victory at Carve Carrbridge and his second win in a row.

The event featured four hours of fierce competition as competitors were challenged to produce a spectacular piece of art using only a chainsaw.

Roni MacDonald at work
Roni MacDonald at work

The carvers sculpted their way through more than 40 logs weighing more than a tonne-and-a-half.

Mr Bowsher’s carving, entitled “I told you to draw”, triumphed over an international field on Saturday and Iain Chalmers from North Kessock was runner-up and also won the people’s choice award.

Despite heavy showers on the day, about 2,500 spectators turned out to cheer on the participants.

As well as carvers from close to home, including Carrbridge’s Alice Buttress – one of three women in the field – other entrants travelled from England, Wales, Ireland, Germany, the US and Canada.

Mr Bowsher said: “It doesn’t get any easier with Carve Carrbridge being such a popular event now and attracting top carvers from all over world so I am delighted to have won today, which is actually my seventh win here.

“Although I have been carving for 30 years, it’s just something I do at weekends, so all the time I am needing to get faster and more detailed to stay on top.

“Carve Carrbridge is easily the best organised event that I attend and we make so many friends every time we come. I’m looking forward to coming back next year and hopefully another win.”

Event organiser, Gavin Gerrard, said: “This is the 12th year for Carve Carrbridge and I am always amazed at how every year the judges have a tougher and tougher job on their hands.

“The level of carving that we see is outstanding. I’d like to congratulate Pete on his win and would like to say a massive thank you to all our supporters, volunteers and our fantastic judges.”