Two pupils from Forres Academy have been given the honour of acting as junior chieftains at the Forres Highland Games which takes place on July 2.

Organisers of the Forres Highland Games approached the school to ask them to choose two pupils for the role with the aim of attracting a younger audience to the traditional event.

Amy McGhee and James McPartlin (both 17) were nominated, and they are now gearing up to spend the day at the Games meeting competitors, stallholders and handing out trophies alongside George Alexander who will act as Chieftain for the day.

Amy who is becoming an ambassador with the Holocaust Education Trust and James who volunteers for various organisations including Scotia Medical Group and Cathay Care Home are both in Altyre House and were nominated by their guidance teacher.

Amy who plans to be a criminal lawyer when she leaves school said: “I am really chuffed, I didn’t expect to be nominated as there are lots of other pupils who could have been picked, but I am really looking forward to the day. I am looking forward to working with George Alexander and being able to learn from him.”

James who wants to become a doctor added: “I do enjoy the Highland Games and I feel happy to have been nominated. I like the tug of war and the pipe bands and the atmosphere at Grant Park. My parents are proud, but I would say that my nana was probably the most pleased.”

Amy and James have been loaned kilts by the Forres & District Pipe Band so they look the part for the occasion.

Jan Sinclair, head teacher at Forres Academy said: “This is a great opportunity for young people of the school to be fully involved and participate in this significant community event.

“Amy and James were chosen as they are passionate about their school community, but their wider community as well. They are responsible and reliable and they are both very keen to show the more positive image of the school into the community.”

George Alexander, a former teacher at the Academy who was previously announced as Chieftain said: “I am delighted that the Forres Highland Games has taken the step to welcome along junior chieftains. Highland Games are an important part of our history and heritage and it’s important that we keep these traditions going by including our young people.”