Southend Highland Games

[EMDEE]

I have been involved in Southend Highland Games on many occasions in past years, and it has always been a great occasion. There is one thing that has puzzled me and I have never actually seeked an answer to, and that is:

Why is the event held in the evening?

In this respect it is out of step with every other Highland Games in the country.

Does Southend Games just like to be different, or is there some historical reason for this?

[4th gen Suthen']

I had no flex for my mic so no overhead swinging and yeehawing!

The Games were held on Saturday afternoon in 1980 I think. As far as I know that was the only time, in recent years, at least, it was not an evening event.
I will ask the President and various other long standing Games Committee members why that is the case but would imagine it will be to do with, in days gone by, so many of the organisers, competitors and spectators being from the dairy farming community...the milking always had to be done. But that did not always work! I can remember very clearly hearing Baldie McCallum's voice 4 miles away on the playing field, while we were finishing milking...me desperate to get down there but having to wash up and get things ready for the morning!

And then it was not a mic and loudspeaker ...just an old fashioned Megaphone.

[linda_j]

Seeing as I was heading back home on Saturday so missed this event did anyone happen to take some pictures?

[EMDEE]

I will ask the President and various other long standing Games Committee members why that is the case but would imagine it will be to do with, in days gone by, so many of the organisers, competitors and spectators being from the dairy farming community...the milking always had to be done.

I had thought it might be something to do with the farm working day.

[4th gen Suthen']

Everyone thought the Campbeltown Pipe Band were excellent at the event....and they were! I was standing right next to them!

[Ship called Dignity]

I enjoyed the Southend Highland Games again this year. I really like the fact it is held in the evening - makes it different to others.

I've a few photos I'll try and post at some time.

[jdcarra]

I've a few photos I'll try and post at some time.

Sorry, no photos this year as I ended up in Fort William and had a quick look in at the Lochaber Highland games.