This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Flying the flag in Belgium
06/09/2002
Deputy Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Murray will
lead thousands of visitors on a celebration of Scottish
culture when she becomes Chieftain of the Belgian Pipe Band
Championships this weekend.
As many as 30,000 visitors are expected at the 17th
annual Scottish Weekend at Alden Biesen, Rijkhoven,
Belgium. As well as massed bands, the event includes
traditional Highland Games competitions, dancing, folk
music and stalls selling Scottish produce.
During the event, the Minister will announce that next
year Belgium will become the first country to host the
prestigious European Pipe Band Championships outside the
UK.
Dr Murray said:
"The success of the Biesen Highland Games demonstrates
the esteem in which Scotland's history and culture is held
not only among ex-patriot Scots but the many thousands of
visitors who enjoy this event each year.
"This is the first time that I have enjoyed the honour
of acting as Chieftain to a Highland gathering, the fact
that this is happening in Belgium, a country with which we
enjoy good relations, is wonderful."
During her visit to Belgium, the Minister will meet a
number of European Ministers, including the Flemish
Minister for Culture, to discuss her portfolio and compare
working practices within similar sized nations in
Europe.
The Belgian Pipe Band Championship at the castle of
Alden-Biesen attracts between 25,000 and 30,000 people
including groups from Scotland, England, Northern Ireland,
France, the Netherlands, and Denmark. As well as the Pipe
Band contest there are also Highland games; a Scottish and
Irish dancing competition; Scottish Music; a Scottish
Dinner; and many stalls promoting Scottish products.
The Scottish Executive, Scotland Europa, the British
Embassy, British Tourist Authority and Visit Scotland will
host a joint stand at Alden-Biesen castle.