Sunday the 17th of July 2011, saw the 26th year of the Ashbourne Highland Gathering.



Although I have been to Harpenden three years running, I had never been to Ashbourne. After some hasty posts and PMs, the decision was made. It was to be a three hour trip, so I left home just after 06:15. The journey was somewhat eventful as the weekends are the time when most roadworks happen. Link this to an eccentric sat-nav, which always trys to take me by the most 'interesting' route and it was almost 3 1/2 hours on the road.

I had been prepared for the £8.50 entrance fee, but the £1.50 for parking came as a little bit of a shock. I then discovered that the programme was an additional £2.00!

Not wishing to criticise, but Harpenden is £3.00 all in. Ashbourne are worrying about going broke. A link between the costs and attendances - maybe.

Through the gate and you get one of these around round your wrist.



Before the crowd arrive:







Sunglasses - not required that day!

More to come.

Regards

Chas