Presentation of The Freedom of Ross and Cromarty

Gaelic stalwart James Hamilton (Hamish) Menzies from Dingwall will be presented with the Freedom of Ross and Cromarty during a special ceremony on Friday (19 September) in Tulloch Castle Hotel.

This prestigious honour, which is rarely presented, has been granted by The Highland Council in recognition of his dedication to choral and Gaelic music. 
Hamish is held in high regard throughout the Highlands for his work with the Dingwall Gaelic Choir, with whom he was conductor for almost 35 years.  On his retirement he held the distinction of having the title of the longest serving Gaelic choir conductor in Scotland.

Born in Sutherland and brought up in Brora, Mr Menzies joined the RAF at the age of 17.  On his return he took up the post of organist and choirmaster at Clyne Parish Church, also directing and conducting the Gaelic Choir in the village.

Moving to Dingwall in 1969 following his marriage, he began his long association with the Dingwall Gaelic Choir in their tenor section.

In 1973 he took over as conductor and led the choir to many distinguished successes, progressing to the premier competition for choral singing in 1977 and winning the much coveted Lovat and Tullibardine Shield at the first attempt.  Under his leadership the choir has won the premier trophy on many occasions along with first prizes in other major choral competitions.  In 2003 at the Royal National Mod in Oban the choir won every competition entered, culminating in top marks for music.

During the evening an official scroll granting the Freedom of Ross and Cromarty will be presented to Hamish Menzies watched by invited guests, including many of his family members and friends.  The celebrations will continue with a performance by Dingwall Gaelic Choir and Alpha Munro & the Kiltearn Fiddlers.

Councillor Margaret Paterson who will be taking part in the ceremony said: “I am thrilled for Hamish, he has contributed greatly to community life in the Dingwall area, in particular to Dingwall Gaelic Choir as its inspirational conductor. He is a most worthy recipient of this treasured recognition.”