THOUSANDS of people turned out to enjoy all things Scottish at the annual Highland Gathering in Harpenden on Sunday.

Held in Rothampsted Park, the event has been organised by the Harpenden Lions Club for the last 16 years and is always a big success.

Steve Gledhill, public relations officer for the Lions Club, said: “The event was excellent. There was a superb turn out and we had the biggest selection of events and displays we’ve ever had.”

Visitors enjoyed pipe bands, highland dancing, marching and heavy events, as well as a falconry display and gymnastics demonstrations from pupils at Roundwood School.

There was a classic car display, a funfair and a display from The 1st Battalion 42nd Highland Regiment, The Black Watch. An impressive range of trade and charity stalls were also present.

“It’s become an enormous event and we had people coming from all over the place to attend,” continued Steve. “It takes a lot of organising and we have been getting emails from people saying how good it was.”

This year’s gathering also coincided with the biannual visit of counterparts from Harpenden’s twin town of Alzey. Visitors from the German town, including the Mayor of Alzey and two councillors, were invited to the event as special guests.

Money raised on the day is to go to Prostate Cancer Charity and Grove House Hospice in St Albans, plus Lions Club charities. The final total is not yet known but organisers are expecting to beat the total raised last year.

Mr Gledhill continued: “We’re very grateful for the support from the Herts Advertiser for promoting the event and contributing to its success.”