Highland games cancelled amid 'financial irregularities' probe

A long-established Scottish highland games has been cancelled amid claims of financial irregularities.

Dornoch Highland Games's committee said it was with "deep regret" that they announced its cancellation with just two weeks notice.

In a statement posted on their website, they said: "This is due to circumstances outwith our control. We sincerely apologise for this disappointment."

A police spokesperson said it had received a report of potential financial irregularities in the Dornoch area between 2024 and 2025. It added that its inquiries were at an early stage.

In a further statement to BBC Scotland News, games president Jimmy MacDonald said the decision followed the discovery of "significant financial irregularities within the organisation's accounts".

"Upon identifying these concerns, the committee commenced an internal review, and the matter was subsequently reported to Police Scotland for further investigation," he added.

"As the matter is now the subject of a police investigation we cannot comment further at this time."

He said the committee understood that the announcement would disappoint competitors, local businesses, residents and visitors who support the games.

"We thank the community for its understanding and patience during this difficult period and ask that the privacy of those involved in the investigation is respected."

Dornoch Highland Games was due to take place at the town's Meadows Park playing field on Friday 7 August.

Organisers say it has been held almost every year since 1835, "bar the war years and one unfortunate rainy day".

Highland games feature a range of competitions for piping, Highland dancing, tossing the caber, putting the ball and throwing the hammer.

The Sutherland event regularly attracts competitors from Europe, USA and Australia as well as the UK.