Entries show pipe band future solid

SCOTTISH PRIDE: The Turakina Caledonian Society is gearing up for its annual Highland Games.PHOTO/BEVAN CONLEY

Turakina is again preparing for its biggest day with the Highland Games on January 30.

The Turakina Domain will be transformed into a Scotland of the south with Highland dancing, piping, field events and the hill race.

The Turakina Caledonian Society's Debbie Benton said the preparations were well under way.

"Things are coming together as they do. We're into the last couple of weeks of things."

Entries for the various events were steady and the 14 pipe bands at this year's event was up on last year.

"There's lots of young ones getting involved and starting out. I think it bodes well for the future of pipe bands," she said.

Clan Keith is this year's host clan, organising events such as the clan march.

Ahead of Saturday's events will be a lament played at the Turakina Cemetery at 6.30pm on Friday.

Mrs Benton hoped this week's wet weather would pass in time for the games. "If anything it's usually stinking hot."

The Highland Games will start on Saturday at about 8.30pm. Up to 2000 people can be expected in the Rangitikei village on the day.