SNP candidate for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, Eilidh Munro, has praised local organisers following the successful conclusion of this year’s Royal National Mòd in Fort William.
The week-long celebration of Gaelic culture brought together performers from across Scotland, with competitions in solo and choral singing, poetry, storytelling, drama, instruments and Highland dancing.
Fringe events and pop-up performances created a lively atmosphere throughout the town, with the ceilidh tent outside the Nevis Centre drawing crowds of both locals and visitors all week.
Eilidh Munro, recently selected as the SNP candidate for next year’s Holyrood elections, was among those taking part, competing in a range of events including solo, duet and group singing.
Speaking after Saturday’s massed choirs finale, she praised the dedication and hard work of the local mòd committee.
“What an incredible week it’s been here in Fort William,” said Munro.
“The local committee did an outstanding job in organising such a successful event, and the energy and excitement was palpable throughout the town.”
Munro, a fluent Gaelic speaker and lifelong supporter of the mòd, said she was struck by the strength of community spirit on display.
“It was lovely to hear Gaelic being spoken everywhere, and to both catch up with lots of old friends and meet plenty of new ones too.”
She also said Fort William had shown itself to be an ideal host town for the national celebration of Gaelic arts.
“As a competitor and spectator this week, I must say that Fort William is the ideal setting for the national mòd, and I hope it won’t be too long until it’s able to return here again, though I’m sure the local committee are looking forward to a bit of a break first.
“‘S math a rinn sibh uile, agus tapadh leibh airson seachdain air leth.”
The Royal National Mòd will next be held in Oban in 2026.
