Loch Lomond Highland Games cancelled after funding cuts

The Loch Lomond Highland Games have been cancelled after funding was withdrawn by the local authority.

Organisers made the decision after a recent announcement from West Dunbartonshire Council.

In a statement, they said it was with "great disappointment" they were calling off the event after it lost £14,000 of support.

A council spokesperson said the step was taken to help close a £17m budget shortfall.

In a social media post, event organisers described the decision as "difficult".

They said: "The recent announcement from West Dunbartonshire Council regarding funding cuts, affected our budget significantly to hold the games this year.

"Although this is disappointing, we are now planning and looking to secure additional funding to bring back the Highland Games in 2025."

The annual event takes place each year at Moss O' Balloch Park and showcases a range of traditional Highland sports.

Launched in 1967, the games attract more than 9,000 people from around the world each year.

The event, which was due to take place on 13 July, is not a council event but has been supported by the local authority in the past.

West Dunbartonshire Council said it was sorry to hear the event would not be going ahead.

A spokesperson said: “The council is facing a significant financial challenge and had to take steps to close a £17million budget gap while protecting essential services and jobs.

“Event organisers are aware that the decision to withdraw grant funding did not alter the council’s other support to the event including infrastructure, facilities and staffing and they have been signposted to support to obtain external funding or sponsorship.”