Humza Yousaf MSP Joined By Alyn Smith MP and Evelyn Tweed MSP

Local MP Alyn Smith, and Stirling MSP Evelyn Tweed, were delighted to welcome Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf to Stirling on Saturday, for the 2023 Stirling Highland Games. Through glimmers of rare sunshine, the FM met with stallholders, local businesses and guests as the staple in Stirling’s summer calendar kicked into high gear.

Stirling Highland Games can trace its origin back to the Stirling Chapmen of 1818, and remains one of central Scotland’s most popular cultural sporting events – welcoming over 8000 visitors annually. The games are run as a not-for-profit by a volunteer committee, supported by Ceangail CIC, a social enterprise based in Stirling.

Alyn Smith MP said:

‘It was a privilege to welcome our First Minister to the Games, and help showcase the full breadth of talent Stirling has to offer – all set against the stunning backdrop of the Wallace Monument. Stirling is home to amazing cultural events, businesses and tourism opportunities, and I’m glad to see the organisers of the Games haven’t lost their magic touch through the tough Covid years. 

‘A healthy visitor attendance flocked to the stalls of local businesses and makers, helping further promote Stirling’s reputation as a leader in the arts, crafts, food and drink sectors. My personal thanks go out to the organising committee, the volunteers and most of all to President Matt McGrandles for his efforts in keeping this cultural institution on fine form indeed.’

Evelyn Tweed MSP said:

‘Stirling Highland Games is a staple in the calendar year, and Matt McGrandles and his volunteer army really pulled out all the stops to make it a day to remember. We have a fantastic story to tell in Stirling when it comes to our tourism businesses. 

‘The sector moves from strength to strength, and events like the Games only underline the real talent we have across our key stakeholders to host large events and celebrate Stirling and Scotland’s cultural heritage. It was great fun to show the First Minister around, meeting businesses, residents and visitors alike to enjoy the day. Here’s to the 2023 Games – and I’m already looking forward to 2024!’

Notes:

Attached is a picture of Thomas Lamont from the Kilted Photographer, First Minister Humza Yousaf MSP, Alyn Smith MP and Evelyn Tweed MSP