THE 147th Stirling Highland Games is taking place on Saturday at the Stirling Sports Village with gates opening at 10.30am.

This year's chieftain is Scotland Cricketer Kari Carswell who has represented Scotland on 148 occasions and captained 54 of those matches.

Looking forward to the games, he said: “It is sure to be a fantastic event; whether you are a competitor, spectator or supporter I’m sure you’ll have an enjoyable day out."

There will be a variety of events to sample this year, with the event's activities challenge area offering the chance to try new age curling and take part in the mini Highland Games.

The Traders Village also has plenty in store with everything from Scottish crafts and arts, to a car being raffled and won on games day.

This year organisers have introduced the Stirling Foodie Fest with over twenty Scottish food and drink producers.

There are four bars onsite and a variety of hot food units for you to enjoy while watching the games.

We are also pleased to announce that 2016 MasterChef Champion Gary MacLean will be speaking to our food and drink producers and holding a Q&A with foodie journalist Cate Devine at 1pm in our Foodie Fest Marquee.

With regards to the traditional Highland Games itself there will be a number of favourites such as heavyweights and tossing the caber, youth races, Highland dancing and a number of piping performances.

Matt McGrandles, games organiser, said: "The team have been working on the 2017 event for almost a year and are delighted that for the fourth consecutive year we have managed to increase the offering on the day for locals and visitors, still making it Stirling’s most affordable day out.

"As the area’s leading, cultural sporting event we look forward to welcoming you to the 147th Stirling Highland Games on Saturday, August 19."

Tickets can be bought in advance through the games website until midnight Thursday, August 17, or can be purchased on the gates.