His Majesty The King met volunteers, businesses, young people and community organisations during special anniversary visit to the town.
His Majesty The King received a warm Highland welcome in Dingwall today (Friday 7 August) as the town marked a major milestone in its history, celebrating 800 years since it was granted Royal Burgh status.
The visit brought together volunteers, community groups, businesses, young people, cultural organisations and emergency services representatives from across Ross-shire, showcasing the strength, creativity and community spirit that continue to shape Dingwall today.
His Majesty's visit began at Cromarty Car Park where he met representatives from, local businesses and producers before presenting the King's Award for Voluntary Service to representatives from Evanton Wood Community Company, and Highland and Islands Blood Bikes, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to their communities.
His Majesty also met recipients of The King's Award for Enterprise, including RSE, WoodBlocX and Fresh Marketing, highlighting the innovation and entrepreneurial success of businesses operating in the Highlands.
At Dingwall Town Hall, His Majesty met local elected representatives and community leaders before unveiling a commemorative plaque marking Dingwall's 800th anniversary.
During his visit he was introduced to representatives from a wide range of local organisations, including Dingwall Community Council, Dingwall Community Development Company, Dingwall 800, Dingwall in Bloom, the Scottish Women's Institute, Dingwall Rotary Club, Dingwall Youth Forum, Dingwall Men's Shed, Ross-shire Women's Aid, Dingwall Players, the Seaforth Highlanders Association, Dingwall Museum, Dingwall Community Woodland, Dingwall Fire Brigade Community Group, the Puffin Pool and Dingwall Community Support and Information.
The visit also celebrated the town's rich cultural heritage, with performances from Highland Young Musicians, The Ceilidh Trail, Clarsach player Grace Stewart-Skinner, Wilson School of Highland Dancers and Fèis Rois young musicians.
Mrs Joanie Whiteford, Lord-Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty, said: "It has been a tremendous privilege to welcome His Majesty the King to Dingwall as part of the town's Royal Burgh 800 celebrations.
"Today has been a wonderful opportunity to showcase the very best of our communities. His Majesty met volunteers, young people, local businesses, charities, community groups and cultural organisations whose dedication makes a real difference to life across Ross-shire.
"I would like to thank everyone who helped organise and take part in today's visit. The warmth of the welcome, the strength of community spirit and the remarkable creativity and talent on display have made this a truly memorable occasion. From our musicians and dancers to our volunteers, businesses and community champions, everyone involved has done Dingwall proud."
Civic Leader, Councillor Margaret Paterson added: “It was a great honour and privilege to welcome His Majesty The King to Dingwall as part of our Royal Burgh 800 celebrations. People across the town and wider Ross-shire area have been looking forward to this visit and it has been wonderful to see so many members of our community come together to give His Majesty such a warm Highland welcome.
"Today has been a truly proud moment for Dingwall. Our 800th anniversary celebrations have provided an opportunity to reflect on our rich history, celebrate our vibrant present and look ahead to the future, and His Majesty's visit has undoubtedly been one of the highlights of this very special year.”
Dingwall 800 is being led by Fèis Rois in partnership with The Highland Council, Dingwall Community Council, Dingwall Community Development Company and a range of local organisations. Through a year-long programme of events and activities, the celebrations are recognising the town's rich heritage, present-day achievements and ambitions for the future.