THE RIVER Tay salmon season comes to an end tonight in traditional style as the river is closed for fishing by a lone piper and a fireworks display on the riverbank.

Always a popular date on the local calendar, the closing of the salmon season is an atmospheric experience.

The ceremony will begin at around 7 pm with a lone piper drifting in a boat down the river from the Kenmore Bridge, playing a lament to herald the end of this year’s fishing.

He will come ashore at the Kenmore Hotel and will then be offered a dram at the bar. Then follows the fireworks display, courtesy of Taymouth Group.

Traditionally, when the season closes, the Taymouth estate hosts a dinner for local business people who have helped promote tourism in the area.

However, due to the multi-million pound redevelopment currently taking place at the castle, Taymouth Group will provide the fireworks display, while Malcolm Flynn, owner of the Kenmore Hotel, is hosting a buffet for invited guests.

Live music will then follow at the Boar’s Head, Kenmore Hotel’s pub.

Michael Hall, director of Taymouth Group Ltd, said, “The closing of the salmon season is a tremendously moving experience, as the sound of the pipes drifts down the river.

“It is a symbolic ceremony that is steeped in history and represents a wonderful opportunity for the local community to come together.

“Taymouth Group is delighted to be able to host the fireworks display for the local community.”