The north-east’s biggest summer gala has continued through rain and shine as Peterhead celebrates its Scottish heritage.
Scottish Week is the largest week-long festival of its kind in the country and kicked off in the Blue Toon with the crowning of the Buchan Queen amidst a north-east downpour.
Bonnie-Leigh Wilson and her princesses, Karla Innes and Patricia Strachan, were crowned by this year’s VIP guests comedians Patrice and McRuvie in Drummers Corner.
Hundreds of locals braved the weather to mark the start of Scottish Week before local performing arts troupe Modo put on a stilt walking display.
The gala is considered the crowning jewel in Buchan’s summer calendar and draws together dozens of events around the town.
The highlight of the festival is always Thursday’s harbour firework display and raft race. Organisers are still inviting teams to enter the annual challenge.
A spokesman said: “One of Scottish Week’s most exciting events takes place again this year at the Lido. Prior to registering their participation, each team will be given advanced notice of the rules which again this year include no rudders.”
Other raft race rules state the vessels cannot be powered by motors and must be crewed by six people, one of whom must be female. A special prize will be handed out for the best fancy dress.
Scottish Week began in the early 1960s when there were 10 similar galas around Scotland. The idea spread across the country over the next few decades but they have since declined.
Event treasurer Graham Barron believes the week-long festivities bring a “feel good factor” to Peterhead every summer.
Other popular events include the dog show, Best of Buchan awards and the traditional parade which will be held on Saturday.
The Scottish Week programme is available from shops around the town centre.
