Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation organises annual Findhorn Village Challenge at the James Milne Institute

VOLUNTARY lifesavers organised an annual village quiz, attracting 60 attendees looking for company and competition.

Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation (MIRO) put the Findhorn Village Challenge on at the James Milne Institute (JMI) on the evening of Friday, March 3 - a total of 10 local groups enjoyed a 10 round quiz with a big prize.

For over 25 years, clubs, groups and organisations have come together for the annual challenge started by former resident Ted Stroud to bring villagers together in the winter months. Initially a games night in Royal Findhorn Yacht Club, it changed to an annual quiz in the JMI.

Teams compete to win a coveted trophy and tradition states that the winners organise the quiz for the following year.

MIRO chairman, John Low, confirmed this year’s evening was well attended and fiercely competitive.

He said: “In addition to the usual general knowledge and music rounds, we designed several specific to MIRO and Findhorn, with rounds about the service we provide, house names and photographic round ‘Where in Findhorn?’ using pictures taken for the event by our photographer, Morven Mackenzie.”

Attendees claim that the highlight of the evening is always the practical round, where participants’ skills are put to the test. Previous challenges have included decorating a cake, building a skiff from paper and making an outfit from newspapers.

John said: “This time, we challenged teams to nominate a member to get kitted up for a rescue. The first team to get into their dry suit, boots, life jacket and helmet ready to jump into the boat were the winners.

“After a great deal of hilarity, the Findhorn Village Conservation Company were victorious in the MIRO challenge.

“The team representing Findhorn Residents’ Association were overall winners and presented with the Findhorn Village Challenge shield.”