Stirling launches 'Bannockburn 700' anniversary plans

A series of events will be held in Stirling to mark the 700th anniversary of the battle

Stirling has launched its plans to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn.

A series of events will be held in 2014 to mark Robert the Bruce's victory over the English on 24 June 1314.

Stirling Council said Bannockburn 700 would be part of a "summer of celebration", including Highland games and clan gatherings.

The Scottish government has also designated 2014 as Scotland's second year of homecoming.

During that year, Scotland will host the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

And plans for a £5m visitor centre, to be built at the battle site in time for the anniversay, have already been announced by the National Trust for Scotland.

Provost Fergus Wood said it was a chance to put Stirling on the "world stage".

"Let's all rise to the occasion and start planning now for a terrific 2014. I'd like to encourage everyone in the Stirling family to help shape our celebrations," he said.

"I hope as many local people as possible will join in by giving us their ideas and getting involved in their communities.".