A birthday bash for a historic parade through the streets of St Andrews will bring town and gown together this weekend.
The reinstated Kate Kennedy procession marks its 90th anniversary on Saturday and the students behind it have organised a series of community events to celebrate.
The Kate Kennedy Club was formed in 1926 and every year its colourful procession, portraying characters from throughout St Andrews University’s six centuries and Scottish history, is watched by thousands of spectators.
More than 100 participants in period costume parade through St Andrews, dressed as characters including Robert the Bruce, Archbishop Sharp and the highwaymen who murdered him, and Lady Katharine Kennedy, the widely-adored niece of St Salvator’s College founder Bishop Kennedy.
This weekend’s enhanced programme of events will include a family fun day with musical performances and battle re-enactments, a history trail for children, a community lunch and a home coming gala ball for university alumni.
A significant donation will be made, thanks to several key sponsors, to local charities.
Kate Kennedy Club president Chris Kunkler said: “This year we are delighted to be able to say thank you to our local supporters and old friends with a very special spring procession to mark our 90th birthday.
“For nine decades, the Kate Kennedy procession has been a key feature in St Andrews life.
“I can think of no better way to celebrate this than alongside members of the community of which we are all privileged to be a part.”
Former Lord Mayor of London Sir Roger Gifford, who was born in St Andrews, and Lord Younger of Leckie are heading a committee helping the club to plan this year’s event, alongside the club’s life members’ association.
Sir Roger said: “I spent my formative years in St Andrews, where my father was a professor in the department of Spanish.
“I am thrilled that for this special anniversary we can create a weekend of celebration that the whole community can enjoy.”