There was fun in the sun in Rattray as locals gathered to see the return of a precious historical artefact.
The main event of the Loon Braes Fun Day was the presentation of the fabled Rattray Silver Arrow to the winner of the day”s archery competition.
The arrow, which dates from the 17th century, was once presented to the winning bowman in the town”s annual archery contest but has been at the centre of a tortuous ownership battle in recent years.
Current holder, the Mercer-Nairne family of Meikleour Estate, agreed to put it on show for the fun day, organised by the Silver Arrow Group, the Strathmore Centre for Youth Development and the local festivals committee.
The sun-kissed event included traditional cookery masterclasses, bird of prey demonstrations, nature and art workshops, theatrical and musical performances, face painting, a bouncy castle and even a sock-wrestling contest.
However, the archery competition and a warbow re-enactment celebrating the 400th anniversary of the parish”s first grand archery tournament were the biggest draws for the large and enthusiastic crowds.
Silver Arrow Group honorary secretary Neil Kennedy thanked Lord Robert Mercer-Nairne for returning the arrow to Rattray for the first time since it was won by his Jacobite ancestor John Nairne in 1727.
He said: “We are grateful that Lord Robert has agreed to allow the arrow to return for this important anniversary. He has been very accommodating and understands the importance of the day.
“It is remarkable that this artefact was not melted down when his ancestor was in exile, which was common practice. It has been well preserved.”
The day started with a gathering of combatants at Rattray Church and the “Rowdy Procession of Archers” to Davie Park. The archery was opened officially by Lachie Rattray, descendant of the person believed to have had the silver arrow made in 1612, making it the world”s second-oldest sporting trophy.
Local MSP John Swinney said: “This is an excellent community event which is a great attraction for both locals and visitors from further afield as well.
“There is an unmistakable link with the past in this gathering and this only adds to its attraction. I would like to thank the organisers for their effort in the run-up to this event and in making sure that a valuable tradition such as this keeps going into the future.”