Window displays to welcome crowds to Queens Baton Relay Celebrations
Dingwall shops are really getting behind the Highland Celebration of the Queens Baton Relay with over 40 shops decorating their windows inspired by a Commonwealth country. Next Friday (11 July) when people flock to the town to see the Baton bearers carry the Baton through the streets and onto the stage at the event in Jubilee Park, they’ll also be able to enjoy the colourful displays highlighting Commonwealth Countries from around the world.
Speaking on behalf of the Dingwall and Seaforth Ward Councillors who have been encouraging local businesses to get involved, Councillor Alister MacKinnon said: “There is a real buzz on Dingwall High Street and we are delighted that the shops have entered into the spirit of this fun community activity. Everyone is excited that the Queens Baton is coming and proud that the main Highland Celebration is in Dingwall.”
“Countries from all corners of the world will be represented in the window displays and we hope people will enjoy exploring Dingwall to find as many as possible, including those up Hill Street, Church Street and Tulloch Street as well as the ones on the High Street.”
There have been many reasons that countries have been chosen, some because of holidays taken or wished for, some because of links with friends and relations, others because of an interest in the countries sports, culture and wildlife.
Many proprietors have travelled to far flung places, Crawford and Cormack's Kit and Greg travelled to India and Sri Lanka and also stock some lovely goods from India, Eclipse Hair Design proprietors and customers have visited Jamaica which they found very friendly, XL Haircutting customers and proprietor visit Malta, while Anne's Hair Salon have chosen New Zealand as they would like to visit and meet the Rugby team! Closer to home MacDonald's Hardwear are supporting Wales.
Pat J's, New Look and MacKays have chosen countries that will showcase summer fashions, and the Bridal Shop has chosen St Lucia as an idyllic honeymoon destination.
The towns many food outlets are also joining in by adopting countries for many reasons. Miss Ying Thai Foods has chosen Malaysia as it borders Thailand, while Battys Baps has chosen Singapore as she liked the flag. Cafe India and Star of India are both supporting Bangladesh, while Cafe Savvani have chosen Usain Bolt's Jamaica.
Botswana has been chosen by the Sports and Model Shop as their son will be travelling there with the Venture Scouts. Other African countries have inspired a search for a range of animals, there will be a lot of animals for children to spot around Dingwall.
Dingwall excellent specialist bookshops and antique shops are developing interesting displays while Dingwall Musuem have now put their Commonwealth display in the window lovingly put together by Ian MacLeod of the Dingwall Museum Trust.
The Queen’s Baton Relay Highland celebration takes place in Jubilee Park on Friday 11 July. Gates open at 4pm for a 5pm start and the free family show will feature live music, singing, dance and the Commonwealth Youth Circus.
ENDS