In Pictures: Opening of the Island Games in Orkney

Smiling faces waiting to support their island teams as the sun shines over Kirkwall

The Island Games have kicked off in Orkney, with more than 2,500 people gathered in Kirkwall's Bignold Park for the opening ceremony.

The Scottish heatwave brought 19C temperatures on Saturday evening, a rare high for Orkney as other parts of the country baked at more than 30C.

The Princess Royal opened the games, while Scots TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and BBC Radio Orkney's Stewart Bain hosted the festivities.

Smiling competitiors joined together and marched down the streets waving flags with their home island colours.

The Princess Royal greeted athletes before she officially opened the 20th Island Games

The 24 island teams paraded down to the centre of Kirkwall

The Stromness RBL Pipe band and the Kirkwall City Pipe Band led the parade with cheers of support from the crowds

Orkney Sea Cadets followed the Princess Royal at the opening ceremony.

TV presenter Lorraine Kelly hosted alongside BBC Radio Orkney presenter Stewart Bain

Flags are held high as teams flew the colours of their home island

People gathered outside the Bignold Park in Kirkwall hours before the event to secure a prime spot

A traditional ceremony in the Island Games involves team representatives pouring water from their home island into a fountain

Hitra athletes wearing matching bucket hats representing their island

There's a buzz among younger spectators who can't wait to support their team

Orkney has showed its support and many people decorating their houses for the occasion

Locals have been getting crafty and embracing the Island Games spirit

Young fans were eager to meet island games mascot, Ola the Orca

Supporters keep cool in the sun, cloaked in the Orkney flag