Countdown is on to the first Gourock Highland Games since the pandemic

The eagerly-awaited event happens on Sunday, with this year's chieftain saying he's 'honoured' to be at the helm.

Organisers have been working hard to set up the popular event which will be held Battery Park on Sunday May 8.

Local man George McLeary, who has been coming to the games since he was a youngster, will be chieftain for the games this year and says it is a real thrill.

He said: "I have had a tradition of attending the games.

"I grew up in Larkfield and I used to attend them in Gourock."

George has been a pillar of the community, being heavily involved with both Greenock Police and the Greenock Royal Naval Reserve, as well as leading in the area’s annual Remembrance Sunday commemorations as parade commander.

He added: "It was a great honour being part of the community in that way, just as it is a great honour to be selected as games chieftain this year."

The games will feature sports, music, and outdoor activitie, including traditional events such as the throwing of the Kempock Stane and plenty of Highland Dancing, as well as gift and craft stalls.

George has been busy preparing for the day with Inverclyde Council workers Stuart Murray and Darren Proudfoot.

Now everyone has their fingers crossed for dry weather.

George added: "I hope the sun comes out on the day and that everybody enjoys themselves.

"People come from all over and see Inverclyde the way it is and take part in a tradition that's been here for so long."

Sunday's games are free to enter and will run from noon.