The return of Scotland to the World Cup has sparked celebrations across the country, but few communities have embraced the occasion quite like Inverie on the Knoydart Peninsula.
The remote Highland village, home to around 100 people and accessible only by boat or an 18 hour walk through the mountains, has been given its own World Cup fan zone thanks to Specsavers, the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA.
The fan zone was created in the village hall ahead of Scotland’s opening match against Haiti, allowing residents to come together for a shared occasion many thought they might never see again.
For Inverie, the event carries special significance.
In 1978, ahead of the World Cup in Argentina, fifteen villagers famously dug a four mile trench and laid a cable simply to bring a television signal to the village so they could watch Scotland play.
Almost fifty years later, that same spirit remains alive.
This time, instead of digging trenches, a 100 inch screen and a tonne of equipment were transported to the peninsula to create a dedicated viewing experience for the community.
Among those attending was John Murdo Morrison, one of the original villagers involved in the remarkable 1978 effort.
John said:
“What we did in 1978 was special and the whole village is excited to be watching Scotland at the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.
“We’re delighted to have Specsavers and their team here to set up the fan zone and we’re glad our digging days are behind us.
“It was an incredible and challenging experience but all worth it to watch Scotland at the World Cup in Argentina.
“Hopefully Steve Clarke and the team can do us proud in America.”
The event also featured live music and complimentary food and drink as residents gathered to support the national team.
Laura Baird, Scottish Divisional Chair at Specsavers, said:
“It was inspiring to hear the story of John and the 15 villagers of Inverie from the 1978 World Cup.
“The lengths Scottish people are willing to go to watch our national team never ceases to amaze me and I just hope we’ve helped made things a little easier this time with our fan zone!”
As Scotland continues its World Cup campaign, Inverie has once again shown that distance is no barrier when it comes to supporting the national team.
