A SAMPLE of traditional Scottish culture will be on display in Cumnock this weekend.

Broomfield is the venue for the Cumnock Highland Games 2016 which will see heavies, pipe bands, highland dancing and more.

Skirling pipes, tossing cabers and family fun will return to Cumnock on Sunday, August 21 for one of East Ayrshire’s most popular events.

Cumnock Highland Games, the community organised celebration of Scottish tradition, sports and culture, takes place from 1pm til 5pm.

It will be the town’s 11th annual Highland Games, and as is tradition the celebrations will kick off at 12.30pm when a host of pipe bands will depart The Square, parading through the town centre before reaching Broomfield. There the Chieftain will declare the games open. This year the honour will go to John Senior who, as of Crossriggs Veterinary Clinic, has been caring for Cumnock’s animals for almost 40 years.

Fifteen athletes from throughout Scotland are due to compete in the prestigious Highland Heavies contest. A series of traditional events including the classic Caber Toss and the unique Cumnock Stane throw will determine which athletes take the Men’s and Ladies’ Cumnock Champion titles.

Whilst the strongmen and women battle it out, a competition just as fierce will take place on the main stage. Highland Dancers from across the country will descend on Cumnock, demonstrating the outstanding athleticism, precision and aesthetics of their discipline as they compete for a number of trophies. Scores of competitors will be travelling to Cumnock for the occasion.

The Pipe Bands will also be performing individually throughout the afternoon, with the spectacular Mass Pipe and Drums not to be missed at the conclusion of the Games, at around 5pm.

Participating this year are Ayr, Coalburn, Irvine, Kilmarnock, Troon and Upper Nithsdale (Youth) pipe bands.

There will also be Tug-of-War, stalls, the traditional beer and tea tents, and the family funfair.

Admission costs £5 per person, concessions are £3 and kids get in free with a paying adult.

Parking is available at Cumnock Academy.