Hundreds turn out to inaugural Beauly event
A PILOT one-day fair showcasing producers, traders and talent from across the Highlands and Islands is set to become an annual event.
The inaugural Bright Beauly Fair, held next to the ruins of the village’s 13th century priory, drew in about 800 people.
Attractions included arts and crafts stalls, food and drink plus music and demonstrations of traditional Highland dancing.
The Beauly Theatre Club staged outdoor performances and Eden Court Theatre provided a Mary Queen of Scots character who mingled with traders and customers.
Historic Environment Scotland also opened the priory’s Mackenzie Chapel to visitors for the first time in 25 years while Naturedays at Aigas had a stall highlighting environmental and conservation issues. The day concluded with a family ceilidh at Phipps Hall.
Organiser Lesley Strang hoped the event, supported by Highland Council and Beauly Community Council, could herald a return of the historic annual Lammas Market which used to be held in the village square.
"Beauly is a really beautiful setting for an artisan fair and we hope to make this an annual event," she said.
"There’s a lot of talent in the Highlands and Islands with creators and chefs making some really unique products."
Beauly antique dealer Iain Marr was delighted to take part in the event.
"We are passionate about protecting, teaching and nurturing the heritage of the Highlands and that is what this fair is all about," he said.
"It’s a fantastic way to bring the community and local traders together as well as welcoming new and inspiring work."