Members of the Fife branch of The Black Watch (RHR) Association gathered to celebrate the awarding of the famous Red Hackle.
It is tradition that Red Hackle day is celebrated on or near January 5.
In Fife association members met in the Rothes Halls for breakfast and a chat.
The origin of the wearing of the Red Hackle is uncertain.
There is evidence that it was worn by the 42nd in North America in the 1770s.
However, a 19th Century tradition ascribes the award of the Red Hackle to an action at the battle of Geldermalsen in 1795 when the 11th Light Dragoons retreated, leaving two field guns for the French.
The Black Watch promptly mounted an attack and recovered the guns.
It was for this action that the Red Hackle was allegedly awarded and on the King’s birthday on June 4 1795, a Red Hackle was given to every man on parade in Hertfordshire.
It was not until 1822 that the Adjutant General issued an order, confirming that only The Black Watch would have the privilege of wearing the red “vulture feather” in their bonnets.
