THE Royal National Mod 2022 closed on Saturday with voices from across the country ringing out over Perth.
A massed choirs event was held in Perth High Street and at Perth Concert Hall to mark the end of the nine-day festival’s programme of cultural events and competitions.
It also saw the Mod flag was handed over to Paisley, next year’s host town.
About 2100 participants from towns and villages across Scotland and as far away as Germany took part in a total of 200 competitions.
Organisers of the Royal National Mòd 2022 hailed the success of this year's event in Perth after today's stunning finale. Read more here: https://t.co/unwkRzIuN6#RoyalNationalMod #Perth pic.twitter.com/g1tbXshhN6
— Perth & Kinross Council (@PerthandKinross) October 22, 2022
Around 7000 people are estimated to have visited Perth for the festival and it’s thought to have contributed around £1 million to the local economy.
Thousands of people from around the globe, including the United States, also tuned in to watch selected Mod events online.
This year saw a return to form following two years of disruption, with events held online and in a hybrid format in 2020 and 2021.
James Graham, chief executive officer of An Comunn Gaidhealach, said: “What a joy it has been to have Gaels gather once again to showcase and honour our language and culture.
“It’s also been fantastic to be back in Perth after such a long time – its fantastic venues, welcoming community and picturesque streets have made it a tremendous Mod location.
“A huge thank you to everyone who makes the Mòd possible, from the hard-working volunteers to the participants and everyone who came to visit and support the event.
“To hear Gaelic language and music around venues and on streets across the city all week has been incredible.”
Perth and Kinross Council leader councillor Grant Laing said: “The return of the Royal National Mòd to Perth has been well worth the wait and Saturday’s finale was spectacular.
“It’s been fantastic to welcome so many competitors and visitors to Perth.
“There has been a fantastic atmosphere in the city throughout the competition.”
