Crowds cheer as Baton arrives in Aviemore

More photos

Over 3,500 people came out to line the street and cheer the local Baton Bearers as they proudly carried the well-travelled Baton through the village.  With live traditional musicians and lots of flag waving, the relaxed carnival atmosphere made the occasion extra special for all those who came along. 

Hot-footing it from a special family fun run event timed to end just before the relay convoy arrived were lots of local children who were eagerly awaiting their first sighting of the baton. They were not disappointed as many had the opportunity to touch the eye-catching baton as bearers stopped to chat and pose for photographs along the route.

Today was a transition day for the convoy from Moray to Perth and Kinross.  Next week the Baton will arrive back in the Highlands on Wednesday 9 July en-route from the Western Isles to Orkney.  It will then set off John O’Groats first thing on Friday 11 July and visit Wick, Brora, Golspie, Tain and Alness before arriving at the Jubilee Park in Dingwall as the highlight of the free Highland celebration event. The following day it will leave from Inverness Castle and travel through Drumnadrochit, Fort Augustus and Spean Bridge before arriving in Fort William where it will be officially handed over to Argyll and Bute Council.

ENDS