Watch: Burning of the Clavie returns to Burghead
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THE Burghead Burning of the Clavie returned for the first time since 2020 last night to welcome in the traditional New Year - albeit six days late.
The annual 'Broch' tradition is usually held every year on January 11 but the Clavie Crew were unable to hold the event on its usual date because of coronavirus restrictions.
However, the recent easing of restrictions allowed the Clavie to be burned once again and the New Year welcomed in style.
Clavie King Dan Ralph was relieved to see it go ahead after last year's cancellation.
He said: "It's a pity it was six days late but we have to put up with these things sometimes.
"We've done it now though. If we'd missed two Clavies it would have been difficult to pick up the full momentum again. We really felt we had to do it this year.
"I thought it went very well. There were a few folk there but not too many. That was fine. We could of done with more wind but apart from that it went great.
"It's a huge relief. It's been a difficult time. Next year will be better. The Broch and the Brochers will have happier times this year we trust."
The event has drawn massive crowds in previous years, often seeing thousands flock to the coastal village.
However, understandably the crowd at this year's gathering was much smaller and was mostly made up of local villagers.
That didn't stop Katie Lyons enjoying the event for the first time after moving to the area from Brisbane a few months ago.
She said: "It's new for me but it's really special. I wouldn't have been able to come if it had happened last week so it's quite special that it's all happened today.
"Of course, not being from the area, it's totally bizarre but it was really unique and special to see."
Pieces of the Clavie are handed out to locals as per the tradition. It's said that receiving a piece is guaranteed to bring good luck.
Dave Hill, who owns the local Station Hotel, received the first piece last night.
He said: "It's always an honour to get the first piece of the Clavie. It really is a great tradition and it's magic to have it back even if it is a bit late.
"It's still great for the village and it means a lot.
"Hopefully this is the start of a better year ahead."
For Hazel Grant, this year's ceremony was even more significant after the passing of her aunt and long time Clavie enthusiast Annie MacPherson.
She said: "This house gets a piece of the Clavie every year because my father and my uncles carried the Clavie in their youth. It belonged to my aunt Annie. Her family were the Mackenzie's who lived just across the road.
"It's even more significant this year for me because it's the first time since Annie died so it's really quite symbolic. It's lovely. We did have a wee Clavie burning on the 11th but this is the real McCoy.
"I think we're all hoping for a better year so hopefully this brings some luck."
Mr Ralph added: "At the moment after what we've all been through for a couple of years, we could all do with something to bring us luck. Hopefully the Clavie does that."
