The organisers of Helensburgh and Lomond Highland Games have warned this year could be the event’s last unless they can secure greater community support – and more cash.

Dwindling committee numbers and a lack of sponsorship have left the future of the Games uncertain.

The event receives a large sum from an anonymous beneficiary annually, but the committee does not want to rely on one source of funding.

The Games is set to return this summer following two years of Covid-enforced cancellations.

It will be held on Saturday, June 4 at Helensburgh Cricket and Rugby Football Club’s grounds at Ardencaple.

Organisers are now calling on local businesses to provide any support they can to secure the future of the event.

Secretary Sarah Osborne said: “We are at the point now that our purse strings are so tight that we aren’t going to have the money to carry on.

“Other than the anonymous donation, it’s a case of us going round and knocking on doors to ask local businesses for sponsorship.

“Anything that anyone can spare would be of great help to us.

“We’re trying to cut costs as much as possible given the way things are going and everything that’s rising - we’re obviously being hit by that as well.”

The modern version of the Helensburgh and Lomond event has been running since 2007, though the town’s Highland Games history dates back to 1889.

Given its history and popularity, Sarah believes it would be a great loss.

She added: “People have come from all over the world to attend these Games.

“I get emails from America, Australia and China from people who want to come. We get people from the town who compete, and we get people from overseas to do so as well.

“It’s such a traditional event that we put our heart and soul into. I’d hate to see it die.”

Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at bit.ly/3IiAM9h.

Those interested in sponsorship or joining the committee should contact Sarah at sarahcaosborne@hotmail.com.