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Flying the flag in Belgium
06/09/2002
Deputy Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Murray will lead thousands of visitors on a celebration of Scottish culture when she becomes Chieftain of the Belgian Pipe Band Championships this weekend.
As many as 30,000 visitors are expected at the 17th annual Scottish Weekend at Alden Biesen, Rijkhoven, Belgium. As well as massed bands, the event includes traditional Highland Games competitions, dancing, folk music and stalls selling Scottish produce.
During the event, the Minister will announce that next year Belgium will become the first country to host the prestigious European Pipe Band Championships outside the UK.
Dr Murray said:
"The success of the Biesen Highland Games demonstrates the esteem in which Scotland's history and culture is held not only among ex-patriot Scots but the many thousands of visitors who enjoy this event each year.
"This is the first time that I have enjoyed the honour of acting as Chieftain to a Highland gathering, the fact that this is happening in Belgium, a country with which we enjoy good relations, is wonderful."
During her visit to Belgium, the Minister will meet a number of European Ministers, including the Flemish Minister for Culture, to discuss her portfolio and compare working practices within similar sized nations in Europe.
The Belgian Pipe Band Championship at the castle of Alden-Biesen attracts between 25,000 and 30,000 people including groups from Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, France, the Netherlands, and Denmark. As well as the Pipe Band contest there are also Highland games; a Scottish and Irish dancing competition; Scottish Music; a Scottish Dinner; and many stalls promoting Scottish products.
The Scottish Executive, Scotland Europa, the British Embassy, British Tourist Authority and Visit Scotland will host a joint stand at Alden-Biesen castle.