Highland dancing, haggis and head balancing are all part of the Scottish attractions on offer at the 2014 Harpenden Lions Highland Gathering this weekend.

Bagpipes and kilts won’t be hard to spot at the event, which is being held this Sunday in Rothamsted Park and runs from 10am to 5pm.

The annual event is run by the Harpenden Lions, a service organisation providing practical help and assistance to local people, and promises to offer old and young the chance to experience a genuine Scottish event.

The Herts Advertiser is the official media sponsor for the Gathering again this year. We will have a stall at the event and will be providing extensive coverage in print and online afterwards.

Capturing the rugged and untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands will be five pipe bands, together with solo piping and Highland dancing competitions, not to mention the spectacle of Highland Games heavy events, and for those brave enough there will chances to participate.

Head-balancing strongman John Evans, 67, is a new attraction at this year’s event. Owning 33 Guinness World Records, his jaw-dropping past feats include balancing a Mini Cooper on his head, and he is sure to amaze crowds with his latest displays of strength and endurance.

Other special attractions include a fun fair, go karts, climbing wall and specific sports competitions, a licensed bar and a wide range of refreshments.

Steve Gledhill, a member of the Lions for over 30 years, said: “People come here from all over the country and it is a place for many Scottish reunions. It is a firm favourite for the community and one of the biggest events in the Harpenden calendar.”

The Gathering has raised over £600,000 for charity since 1980, and this year’s proceeds, which should be in the region of £15,000, will go to Arthritis Care, Carers in Hertfordshire and Life Skills Programme in local schools.

This is the last chance to get tickets for what is promised to be a fun-packed day. Entrance for adults is either by purchasing a programme, for £3, in advance or £6 on the gate. Programmes are on sale from selected local retail outlets including WH Smith in Harpenden. Programmes can also be bought online at www.harplions.com. Children under 16 when accompanied by a paying adult enter free of charge.