Angus put on its Sunday best in glorious sunshine to host a diamond jubilee party that will live long in the memory.
A bumper crowd upwards of 23,000 sizzled as they flocked to the Queen Mother’s childhood home for the Glamis Gathering, Scotland’s biggest party to mark Her Majesty’s 60-year reign.
The 600-year-old castle provided the spectacular backdrop as the communities of all seven Angus burghs were united in a showcase format of burgh marquees and entertainment on a string of stages.
The event featured massed pipe bands, 500 Highland dancers, live music performances, interactive displays and activities.
The VIP guest was the Duchess of Gloucester who was making her first visit to Angus and her warm and informal manner won her many admirers.
Bathed in blazing hot sunshine, the whole day was a triumph from start to finish.
The county’s Lord Lieutenant, Georgiana Osborne, told The Courier: ”It was a totally unforgettable day with the backdrop of Glamis looking quite glorious. There was blue skies, wonderful entertainment and having a royal visitor really did enhance the whole experience.
”The Duchess of Gloucester had a slightly tight schedule but she spoke to as many people as she possibly could and was very impressed with Angus. She enjoyed speaking to everyone especially the children.Click here for a full photo gallery”She was very patient, sweet, and lovely with them and was absolutely charming. It’s been a tremendous day which has gone beautifully without a hitch and everyone behaved impeccably.”
She said the celebration had given the people of Angus a wonderful opportunity to come together and share the diversity of the people and their activities.
Mrs Osborne appointed Robina Addison as one of her deputies to organise Sunday’s gathering, and Mrs Addison said she never doubted the sun would shine on Glamis for its big day.
”I never had a moment’s worry about the weather. You hope there are going to be lots of people but you don’t know until you are there and you can’t imagine until you see it and it’s just overwhelming.
”The people of Angus have come together to show off the diverse skills and talents the county has to offer.”
Angus provost Helen Oswald added: ”Everyone is happy and everyone is smiling it’s been a tremendous day. I think Angus has given a fantastic account of itself.”See further coverage in Monday’s Courier