A GROUP of Gourock musicians travelled almost 4,000 miles across the globe to give a top tartan-clad performance for a VIP audience.

Celtic folk fusion rock band Reely Jiggered were flown from to Pakistan by the British High Commission to play at a special Scottish event in the country's capital of Islamabad.

As well as the high-flying big event, the band - made up of sisters Alison and Fiona McNeill and Mark Norris - also visited the Mashal School in the same city.

It was set up as a place of safety and works to provide education for over 800 street children.

The visit was the band's fourth time in Pakistan, and Alison described their latest experience as an 'unique adventure'.

The Gourock soprano told the Tele: "We were supposed to have gone over for Burns Day, but because of Covid-19 our trip was delayed.

"It was a whirlwind - we arrived and got changed on the plane before heading straight to the school to see the children.

"We performed and brought Scottish goodies like books with us.

"The school is an amazing place and it was amazing to play for all the children there. They seemed to really enjoy the music"

The Scottish celebration, which took place in the British High Commissioner's headquarters, saw guests also entertained by the Pakistan Pipe Band.

Alison says the Gourock group had the red carpet rolled out for them at the fun-filled evening, which was such a hit that they have already been invited back.

Alison added: "We loved performing at the event, the atmosphere was brilliant. It was also in aid of charity, with all monies going towards helping women in education, so that made it extra special.

"It's also a real pleasure to be invited back to play a part in the country's Burns celebration. Hopefully we'll get to spend a little longer exploring Pakistan this time and get to do more with local people, particularly the youngsters in the local schools."