THE sun shone on Ardencaple on Saturday as Helensburgh and Lomond Highland Games (HLHG) made its long-awaited return.

After a two-year absence due to Covid, competitors and spectators descended upon the town once again.

Competitions were held in Highland dancing, track, and heavy athletics.

Some locals were among the winners too, with dancers from the Margaret Rose School bringing home medals and trophies.

Lucy Clark took four first placings in the four-years primary section, with Olivia Moffat winning four gold medals in the six-years group.

Blythe Brown won the overall confined trophy in the 15-years beginners section.

Secretary Sarah Osborne said: “I think we had about 4,000 people who came along. It was a great day and everybody was delighted.

“The weather was really good - there were lots of happy faces and lots of lobsters too!”

Earlier this year, the HLHG committee highlighted the challenge facing them in planning next year’s event.

They are continuing to appeal for support in the form of volunteers and sponsorship to ensure its return.

Sarah added: “We haven’t had anybody offering to come join us on the committee or contribute financially to future events yet.

“Our committee is also now down to four as one of our members resigned.

“I appreciate people are strapped for cash at the moment but if everybody put in a pound, that would be a considerable amount.

“We’re still looking for community support for this community event, or else it will be down the pan.”

Anyone who can support the event should contact sarahcaosborne@hotmail.com.