There was a large turnout in Thurso High School on Saturday night for the annual fiddlers' rally organised by Thurso Strathspey and Reel Society.

Fiddle players travelled from as far away as the Lake District to join in the fun with local players under the leadership of George Pain.

The first half of the rally took the form of a “listen to” section, with the audience treated to many familiar toe-tapping tunes and a selection of slow airs. A special performance by the society’s junior fiddlers was greatly enjoyed, as were the beautiful tunes played by Caithness Clarsachs, a harp ensemble led by local musician Susanne Lloyd-Jones.

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A tea break allowed friends old and new to meet up and have a blether. The second half comprised a traditional ceilidh, with plenty of opportunity to take to the floor for dances such as Strip the Willow, the Dashing White Sergeant and the Military Two-Step.

Seasoned ceilidh dancers were on hand to show the ropes to those unfamiliar with the proceedings.

After more than three hours of music, the evening was rounded off with a rendition of “Auld Lang Syne” and those assembled headed home with a song in their hearts and looking forward to next year’s rally.

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