This Saturday marks the return of the ever-popular Dundonald Highland Games.

Held next to Royal Dundonald Castle, this year's events mark the culmination of a week of activities including a car and walking treasure hunt, pet show, running and sports events, and a scarecrow competition.

The festivities begin at 11.30am on August 3 with the children’s fancy dress competition at Montgomery Hall followed by the procession through the village to the playing fields.

At 12.30pm, during the opening ceremony people will be able to watch the coronation of the Games Queen and the Chieftain’s address.

Throughout the day the piping arena will be home to the RSPBA pipe band and drum major contests, where highly skilled local, regional and international bands compete.

Elsewhere, the solo piping and RSOBHD Highland dancing stages will showcase some of the finest Scottish and global talent.

The events arena will provide a range of alternative entertainment including some burly Scots competing at the heavy events.

Royal Dundonald Castle and the visitor centre is open all day and the castle will also provide a magnificent background for the solo lament during the prizegiving and closing ceremony.

The stalls and craft fayre will be well worth a visit, with a fantastic blend of commercial stalls and local clubs and organisations from throughout the village.