Latheron Show set for Viking invasion as organisers report 'renewed enthusiasm'
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Caithness is set for a Viking invasion on Saturday – as one of the top attractions at Latheron Agricultural Society's annual show.
The event at West Clyth Farm marks a return to the county for the Glasgow Vikings, whose living history encampment and battle re-enactments have previously been seen in Thurso and John O'Groats.
Meanwhile, livestock entries are reported to be up across the board and there will be family-friendly activities throughout the day.
The visiting Vikings will demonstrate skills such as weaving, jewellery-making, cooking, tool-making and weaponry. Their camp will run from 10am, with battle re-enactments in the main ring at 11.30am and 2.30pm.
Their appearance is supported by the Lybster and Tannach Fund.
Show secretary Joanne Smith says the Viking displays promise to be immersive, interactive, entertaining and educational, adding: "After researching local history, they tell me the Gunns, Mackays, Campbells, Sinclairs and Sutherlands had better look out!"
She went on: "As we approach our 98th show, there is a real buzz around the return to our show field format with the usual favourite events – horse, livestock, floral and home industries competitions, trade stands and craft stalls full of locally made treats and gifts and home-grown produce. And don't forget the dog show, baby show, kids' sports and horse sports.
"Throughout the day you will see the kids entertained by Mr and Mrs Bubbles, a clown and professional face-painting act, and the new MF martial arts team."
Locally grown food can be washed down with a local tipple, both provided by Puldagon Farm. Other attractions include vintage tractors and machinery, a baling demonstration and a display by Lybster fire brigade.
"As with most other annual events, our show has suffered over the past few years with the fallout from poor weather and Covid restrictions – but there is a renewed enthusiasm evident by an influx of new committee members and volunteers, huge generosity from sponsors and donations and a significant increase in exhibitor numbers," Ms Smith said.
"Individual entries are up across the board with 238 horse and pony entries, 43 cattle entries, 153 sheep entries and six goat entries. Our craft tents and external trade stands are full, and with a bouncy castle, Exotic Animal Encounter popping in and a children's Viking-themed scavenger hunt there is literally something for everyone."
Horse judging starts at 9am, with the livestock, floral and home industries judging getting under way at 10am. Dog show judging starts at noon.
Kids' sports are scheduled for 1.30pm and the baby show is at 2.15pm.
Champion of champions judging will be followed by a parade of vintage tractors at 3.30pm.
