Video: Watch spectacular opening parade as Mod 2024 lights up Oban
A dazzling torchlit procession through the streets of Oban led by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, members of An Comunn Gàidhealach and the local organising committee got the Mod formally under way last night.
Our team of Martin Stewart and Sandy Neil were on hand to capture all the action, with Sandy gathering the interviews and Martin shooting this great video of the march.
Ms Forbes said: “It is fitting to see the Mòd return home to Oban as we mark an increase in Gaelic speakers for the first time in nearly 50 years.
“As a proud speaker of the language, it is an honour to see Gaelic champions recognised with the Scottish Government’s Gaelic Ambassador of the Year award.
“We have provided Gaelic initiatives like the Mòd with more than £120 million since 2021. To build on this support, we are progressing the Scottish Languages Bill which aims to strengthen Gaelic education and make Gaelic an official language of Scotland.”
Councillor Jim Lynch, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, added: “Ceud mìle fàilte. It’s a joy to see the Royal National Mòd back in its home, in Oban, after nearly a decade. The Mòd plays a valuable cultural and economic role in Argyll and Bute, past, present and future.
"As a council, and as communities, we’re proud to support the event and welcome the thousands of talented people who will congregate in Oban over the next week to celebrate our Gaelic culture. I hope you enjoy some of the sights and hospitality of Argyll and Bute while you are with us. Best of luck in the events.”
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