COWAL Highland Gathering got off to a fine start on Thursday - with visitors enjoying glorious sunshine and a relaxed atmosphere.

The main event on Thursday is the Scottish National Highland Dance Championships, open to all premier category dancers resident in Scotland from age seven to 18.

A number of Cowal dancers competed but sadly didn't make it to the final prize list - but with the Scottish and Argyll championships on Friday and Saturday, there will be plenty of opportunities for them to take home some silverware.

Thursday's prizewinners were: Age 7 to 9 years, the David Roberts Cup - Jessica Baillie, Letham. Age 9, the Stewart Bowman Memorial Trophy - Cameron Walker, Denny. Age 10, the Anna Bain Cup - Jessica Morrison, Fraserburgh. Age 11, the Frances Paterson Trophy - Erin Rae, Menstrie.  Age 12, the McDonald Trophy - Airlie McIntyre, Kirriemuir. Age 13, the Jackie Sanderson Trophy - Kirstin Stewart, Leven. Age 14, the Delma Wilson Challenge Trophy - Rebecca Smith, Stranraer. Age 15, the Young Grassick Cup - Cara Gilliland, Bonhill. Age 16, the Sheila McKay Cup - Robin Hart-Winks, Kirriemuir. Age 17, the Wilma Tolmie Cup - Eilidh Buchanan, Larbert. Age 18, the UKA Trophy - Charlene McMahon, Penicuik.

The winning dancers were presented with their trophies and coveted Cowal medals by Ann Green and Rhona Lawrence of the UK Alliance of Teachers of Dance.

As well as the dancing, visitors could enjoy the spectacle of the popular classic car parade, featuring the pride and joy of several Cowal residents. Attracting many an admiring glance was Scott Tyre's dazzling white E-type Jag, a selection of pristine MGs and a stately Rolls Royce.

Friday sees the arrival of the Games pipers as the solo piping competitions get underway. The stadium will also host the primary school and heavy athletics competitions, as well as the Scottish Highland Dancing Championships.