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GALLERY: Spectacular pictures show Clavie burning brighter than ever before in Burghead

The Burning of the Clavie in Burghead.
Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie in Burghead. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson

The unique New Year tradition of Burning the Clavie has returned to its rightful place in Burghead.

Crowds packed the Moray town for the annual ritual of carrying a burning whisky barrel through the streets.

An old whisky cask full of staves was prepared before being set alight at 6pm to cheers and excitement.

The Clavie, siting in Dan Ralph, the Clavie King’s workshop ahead of the burning later tonight Image: Wullie Marr / DC Thomson

Hundreds followed the procession through the streets before the stunning climax on Doorie Hill.

It is the first time the event has been held on its traditional January 11 date since 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.

This year’s spectacular event was captured by Press & Journal photographer Jason Hedges and Videographer Wullie Marr in our gallery below.

Crowds gathered to see the the Clavie barrel making its way through Burghead up to Doorie Hill. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The Clavie barrel making its way through Burghead tonight. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie is Burghead’s annual NY tradition. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The Clavie burning and rolling down the hill. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
Spectators watched the flames light up the sky. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie, a long standing tradition. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie is Burghead’s annual NY tradition. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
Crowds close enough to feel the heat on their faces. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The event was carefully and safely monitored by organisers. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
Burning of the Clavie on Doorie Hill in Burghead tonight. Picture by Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
Burning of the Clavie in Burghead makes a comeback to its original date with a huge flock of people turning up for the ancient New Year event. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
Doorie Hill, a radiant orange blaze . Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie is Burghead’s annual NY tradition. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
A wonderful event enjoyed by all the family. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson
A celebration for generations to come. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
The flames were a spectacular showing. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
By standers capturing the burning of the Clavie on their mobile phones. Image: Jason Hedges / DC Thomson
Fantastic flames. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
Many gathered for this new year celebration. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie is Burghead’s annual New Year tradition. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
The Clavie making its way through the streets of Burghead. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
A wonderful tradition lighting up the streets with a warm orange glow. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
The Clavie team keeping the flames under control and in check. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
The Burning of the Clavie is Burghead’s annual NY tradition. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
A family friendly event enjoyed by many of the locals. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
Burghead’s annual New Year tradition. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
A joyful night for everyone. Until next year.  Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson