Aberdeenshire is going for gold and wishing all Ramadan Mubarak

This weekend sees the Queen’s Baton Relay make its way through Aberdeenshire as part of its journey across the Commonwealth Nations and Territories ahead of the Commonwealth Games opening event on July 23.

I will be attending Meldrum Academy to see the baton arrive, enjoy a civic reception and watch the rugby 7′s tournament pupils from a number of local schools are participating in. There will also be a special exhibition match by Mackie and Ellon Rugby Clubs which I’m sure will be a highlight. The relay route takes in a number of other exciting locations and will culminate with an evening event at Peterhead’s Balmoor Stadium, which will feature music, parades and exhibitions from local sports clubs and organisations.

It’s exciting to witness an international event of this calibre come to the North-east of Scotland. Playing host to the baton in Aberdeenshire’s towns, and some of its most recognisable landmarks, is a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase some of the remarkable people and places.

I would encourage everyone to go and witness a piece of history on our own doorstep and would also like to thank all the Aberdeenshire Council staff who volunteered as marshalls for the event.

Sunday also sees the beginning of the Islamic holy festival Ramadan.  It is a time for prayer and reflection for the Muslim community and will see Muslims fasting during the daylight hours.  Ramadan Mubarak (Happy Ramadan) to all.