View Full Version : National Mod
It is less than 2 weeks until we have the National Mod taking place here in Caithness, I am sure people have mixed thoughts on the event. I for one don't speak Gaelic but hope to be able to go along to some of the competitions. Organisers have all worked very hard to make this happen and I wish them all the best and hope they get good support from the people of Caithness:lol::lol::lol:
spaceddaisy
27-Sep-10, 18:51
I don't speak a word of Gaelic either but can't wait for the Mod.
Very much looking forward to some of the fringe events and the general atmosphere there's going to be. Will be great to have Wick and Thurso busy for the week and will be great to see some new faces around the town.
Very excited!
Tubthumper
27-Sep-10, 19:00
Looking forward to it, and the opportunity for our County to be seen on the national stage!
I can't wait for the mod! SO excited! Lots of great things on the fringe programme.
Looking forward to it too there should be some great shows.
Mr P Cannop
27-Sep-10, 21:59
3 pipe bands on the 7th october at 6.30pm in wick
Alice in Blunderland
27-Sep-10, 22:15
Im on holiday in France that week and Im gutted Im going to miss it.
I believe that the estimates are thousands of people arriving in the county :eek:
It should be a great atmosphere.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tucq43gQs_M
Will we see scenes like this but on a bigger scale. :D
Impromptu concerts in the street.
sorry to be an ignoramus..but is there a programme of whats happening where?
sorry to be an ignoramus..but is there a programme of whats happening where?
There is an online version of the Mod Fringe programme at http://www.caithnessmod2010.co.uk/en/fringe.html. This is not the competitions, it's about the other activities that are on in Mod week. However, there will be a lot happening besides what is there - pubs and hotels will also have bands on that are not in the programme as they have been advertised independently. There are paper versions of this programme being distributed for free. Kids are getting them home from school and libraries, shops, Caithness Horizons should have copies to give away as well.
The Mod organisers will be updating their website with further details of what is happening in the next week or so.
There will also be a full programme for the Official Mod - competitions and so on. You need to buy that one, think it is about £5 - should be available shortly.
Thurso caravan and camping site is going to be busy with a lot of advance bookings already being made.
Blue door cafe at the camp site is going to have extended opening hours and some different things on the menu for the Mod and fringe events. They also have some lovely specialist embroidered mod souvenirs on sale at reasonable prices and free fringe events leaflets on the counter.
cuddlepop
28-Sep-10, 11:50
Just make sure you,ve got plenty alcohol in.Its not called the "whisky olympics" for nothing.:lol:
When we hosted the mod in Portree,people were willing to sleep on a floor as accommodation couldnt meet need.
Everywhere should be really busy.:D
I'm sure that everyone whose going will have a great time.Its just a pity my friends daughter was informed that there will be no gaelic poetry competion,wee ones so disappointed.:(
buggyracer
28-Sep-10, 13:14
Just make sure you,ve got plenty alcohol in.Its not called the "whisky olympics" for nothing.:lol:
When we hosted the mod in Portree,people were willing to sleep on a floor as accommodation couldnt meet need.
Everywhere should be really busy.:D
I'm sure that everyone whose going will have a great time.Its just a pity my friends daughter was informed that there will be no gaelic poetry competion,wee ones so disappointed.:(
what time's were the pubs and bars open to when in Portree? or any other places the Mod has been for that matter?
Really excited too, will be really something. Perhaps we should have a sticky thread to allow people to comment on the various events they have attended, seen or taken part in? :D
changilass
28-Sep-10, 14:33
If enough folks are commenting it won't need to be sticky, it will stay at the top all by itself lol.
If enough folks are commenting it won't need to be sticky, it will stay at the top all by itself lol.
So it will :lol: But I thought it might be easier for visitors to find :Razz
Also might be an idea if we stop being nutters for a couple of weeks, while the eyes of the world are on us. [lol]
MusicWicker
28-Sep-10, 19:10
what time's were the pubs and bars open to when in Portree? or any other places the Mod has been for that matter?
Think all the pubs got a licence to 1.30 or 2am
Blackstairs Mod Events
Sun 10th - Scheihallion 8pm - 11pm
Tue 12th - Schiehallion 9pm - 12pm
Thu 14th - Schiehallion 10pm - 1am
buggyracer
28-Sep-10, 19:16
Think all the pubs got a licence to 1.30 or 2am
Blackstairs Mod Events
Sun 10th - Scheihallion 8pm - 11pm
Tue 12th - Schiehallion 9pm - 12pm
Thu 14th - Schiehallion 10pm - 1am
So im told, but i was also told previous Mod locations were granted much later opening times........:confused
cuddlepop
28-Sep-10, 19:32
what time's were the pubs and bars open to when in Portree? or any other places the Mod has been for that matter?
Who said anything about pubs and bars.;)
buggyracer
28-Sep-10, 19:41
Who said anything about pubs and bars.
:lol::lol:
i like it, but it was a genuine question ;)
MusicWicker
29-Sep-10, 09:35
So im told, but i was also told previous Mod locations were granted much later opening times........:confused
Well, All bars will get to 2am if they apply for it but they are entitled to apply for later. Whether they want it is another thing. I only applied for 1.30am for the week as don't really want to be open after that.
Think a couple of bars are in for 4am licences
Alice in Blunderland
29-Sep-10, 12:43
Up to eight thousand extra visitors in one week to Caithness............ :eek:
I hope the pubs, clubs and A&E are ready for it. ;)
buggyracer
29-Sep-10, 12:46
Well, All bars will get to 2am if they apply for it but they are entitled to apply for later. Whether they want it is another thing. I only applied for 1.30am for the week as don't really want to be open after that.
Think a couple of bars are in for 4am licences
yes ive heard its a 2am limit, but i also heard that most other mod locations were allowed to open as late as 4 am, and many of the visitors to the area will expect a similar opening time........could be a few dissapointed mod goers........ and caithness being rememberd for a dry-ish mod :confused
Metalattakk
29-Sep-10, 15:05
I've heard of two premises in Thurso that applied for a 4am license.
They were both denied at the Council Licensing Board meeting on the 14th Sept.
On the board was a certain Cllr John Rosie and some of his cronies.¹
I wonder if there was a Declaration of Interest there?
Would our councillors really let their anti-Gaelic feelings influence the profit-making abilities of local businesses?
¹. Allegedly, of course. We won't know for sure until the Highland Council publish the minutes of the meeting on their website (http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourcouncil/committees/caithnesssutherlandandeasterrossmeetings/caithnesssutherlandandeasterrosslicensingboard/).
buggyracer
29-Sep-10, 16:19
I've heard of two premises in Thurso that applied for a 4am license.
They were both denied at the Council Licensing Board meeting on the 14th Sept.
On the board was a certain Cllr John Rosie and some of his cronies.¹
I wonder if there was a Declaration of Interest there?
Would our councillors really let their anti-Gaelic feelings influence the profit-making abilities of local businesses?
¹. Allegedly, of course. We won't know for sure until the Highland Council publish the minutes of the meeting on their website (http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourcouncil/committees/caithnesssutherlandandeasterrossmeetings/caithnesssutherlandandeasterrosslicensingboard/).
Yes ive heard of a few at 4am and a few at 3am all were rejected, a 2am license was given as the latest for everyone, i have also heard of potential customers from the south enquiring as to what entertainment the local bars are providing and there opening hours, only to be left very dissapointed when told 2am closing times, as previous Mod events were given much later opening hours......Mod could be over before it starts, as far as an attractive future venue goes.
If the visitors are residents in the various venues surely they can be served at any time and it won't matter what time they have a licence 'til. Or am I wrong??
Metalattakk
30-Sep-10, 11:43
If the visitors are residents in the various venues surely they can be served at any time and it won't matter what time they have a licence 'til. Or am I wrong??
And what if they're not residents of the various venues? Most of the B&Bs in town have no alcohol licence, for instance.
buggyracer
30-Sep-10, 11:57
And what if they're not residents of the various venues? Most of the B&Bs in town have no alcohol licence, for instance.
exactly, as well as all bars with no rooms, why should every other Mod have opening times of 4am, and Caithness go and ruin it with 2am.......:confused
Metalattakk
30-Sep-10, 13:33
exactly, as well as all bars with no rooms, why should every other Mod have opening times of 4am, and Caithness go and ruin it with 2am.......:confused
I guess those questions need to be aimed at those who rejected the license applications.
I guess those questions need to be aimed at those who rejected the license applications.
I thought it was a Gaelic arts festival and competition :confused
Metalattakk
30-Sep-10, 16:32
I thought it was a Gaelic arts festival and competition :confused
It is! Late-night drinking is both an art form, and competitive, to the natural Gael. Or so I am led to believe... ;)
Dog-eared
30-Sep-10, 20:48
The Whisky Olympics !
Poor show if the MOD people aren't catered for here as well as they have been in previous areas.
Walter Ego
01-Oct-10, 09:31
Looking at the situation from a slightly different angle, you could say the licencing authority is acting in a reasonable and thoughtful manner.
We are bombarded by SNP/Government messages regarding Scotlands failing health through a heavy drinking culture, battles have been fought to try and raise the price of alcohol and we are subjected to endless finger wagging sessions by those 'in the know'.
Bearing in mind the SNP were at the forefront of the drink price raising scam and that their core support is in Gaeldom, it is only right that the Mod should lead in the struggle for reasonable and sensible drinking policies. You could say that the Licensing people have cut them some slack, whilst behaving responsibly in it's duty of care to the community.
Mods for moderation, eh?;)
Just because other areas of Scotland have allowed later drinking licences, does that mean we should trot along with their thinking? And how many places in Caithness do you know that actually stick to the rules regarding closing times? 2am sounds pretty good to me.
I wonder if Harris and Lewis (the islands, not some cops and robbers double act) would bend over backwards and chuck out their Sunday ideals to accommodate the tourists? I think not....
The Mod will stand or fall on the welcome of the people, the facilities and the atmosphere - not upon wether some one can obtain a legal drink at 3.30 in the morning.
Metalattakk
01-Oct-10, 10:11
That's all well and good, Walter, but I'm sure our local publicans think along different lines.
Here's a chance for them to make a killing, like plenty of other places have done when hosting the Mod, yet that chance has been denied at the personal whim of a bitterly anti-Gaelic councillor. Allegedly. ;)
If mod attenders want to continue the ceilidh after hours I am sure they will find plenty of friendly locals hosting parties. For those who need alcohol to enjoy themselves they will stock up at the supermarket and stash it in their room/caravan/tent or wherever.
Just hope the weather improves for the folks booked onto the camping site or the windows in the blue door cafe will be very steamed up indeed.
I know the Mod is affectionately called "The Whisky Olympics" but that does not mean that many of them get absolutely out of their minds with alcohol. I've only been in involved in the Mod once and that was in Portree and I didn't see any kilted people blind drunk; only enjoying themselves having ceilidhs, impromptu singing sessions etc!
B & Bs don't always have licences but then again they can bring in their own drink and have a private party if they want; just depends on the owners. The pubs will be busy because where else can all the Mod goers congregate with their friends and other Gaels but that does not necessarily mean they will be riotous and out of control!
The atmosphere is Portree was one of music, banter and greeting of old friends with every one made welcome in their company; I loved it! Then on the last day when they were all getting ready to board their buses etc., there was the massed choirs all singing their hearts out and making a beautiful sound; heart warming!
Im on holiday in France that week and Im gutted Im going to miss it.
It should be a great atmosphere.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tucq43gQs_M
Will we see scenes like this but on a bigger scale. :D Impromptu concerts in the street.
I'm gutted too Alice. I'd promised you and WBG a drink. Here's hoping the bad weather turns tail and heads to France next week and it will be an Indian Summer in Caithness. :Razz
Hope you have a Fab holiday and that Caithness does the National Mod proud. :D
Alice in Blunderland
07-Oct-10, 14:13
Oh well that's me did my bit. I helped Weeboyagee hang some banners.
It all sounds very, very good. People are coming in all forms of transport including boat and chartered plane its going to be very busy. :D
Oh well that's me did my bit. I helped Weeboyagee hang some banners.
It all sounds very, very good. People are coming in all forms of transport including boat and chartered plane its going to be very busy. :D
I hope you were suitably attired when up the ladder, we know of your little mistakes down here [lol]
Mr P Cannop
07-Oct-10, 16:41
can someone video the pipe bands tommorrow night as am not able to get over to wick i would be very greatfull if someone can do this ??
Alice in Blunderland
07-Oct-10, 18:26
I hope you were suitably attired when up the ladder, we know of your little mistakes down here [lol]
Kept my feet on the ground. :lol:
No alcohol a thick pair of trousers and a high vis jacket to let everyone know Alice is around so watch out. ;)
If you volunteer you might even meet Prince Charles while camilla's in katrina's spa
he's on meet and greet on the 14th- fresh back from India
Aaldtimer
08-Oct-10, 02:54
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOH! haud me back![disgust]
Alice in Blunderland
08-Oct-10, 12:21
D day it all kicks off today then.
Good luck to all involved I'm just sorry I'm going to miss it all.
buddyrich
09-Oct-10, 12:42
I'm currently at the Shetland acc/fiddle Festival. The last bar here closes at one thirty am so everyone makes sure they have a stash. But the difference is the Isleburgh centre is open til 5 am so even though the bar inside is shut, the hall is still open for music. Even if they were unlicensed, the Mod would benefit from some late-opening venues for people to put sessions on. The Mod will have to go some way to impress after visiting Shetland though! Good luck to it though, I'm looking forward to coming back and seeing a bit of it.
MusicWicker
11-Oct-10, 16:12
Would I be right in thinking that there not 8000 extra people in the county at the minute? :confused
More like 2000 by the look of it
duno,but it was good night out in wick on sat night! and we left wetherspoons about 1.30 and there was PEOPLE walking down high street:eek: that makes a change!!!
Would I be right in thinking that there not 8000 extra people in the county at the minute? :confused
More like 2000 by the look of it
Expect big crowds from Wednesday when the adult choirs and their groupies arrive. :)
The Mod is being broadcast on BBC2 tonight at 11:30pm and again tomorrow
Thurso very quiet, thought there would have been more people about but that will probably be Wenesday when the adult competitions start. We went to the Folk groups this afternoon and under 18's solo singing. It was money well spent and look forwar to going to more events later in week.:lol::lol::lol:
Aaldtimer
11-Oct-10, 19:07
The Mod is being broadcast on BBC2 tonight at 11:30pm and again tomorrow
Also on BBC Alba, 8.30 - 10.30pm.
The first day's winning performances.:)
Would I be right in thinking that there not 8000 extra people in the county at the minute? :confused
More like 2000 by the look of it
Its 'all water and no whisky' if you ask me.
Typical public funded hype, hyped up by public funded jobsworths.
I'd love to be proved wrong, but at the moment it seems the Gaelic equivalent of Homecoming Scotland.
The opening sesh at the market square was good...with being able to wander around with the wee ones while still listening..but cold!
wish we could have stayed longer.
having a look on the whats on section and there seems to be a lot on for all ages!
Yes Dadie; just had a look on the front page of the org at todays Mod related events! Plenty of choice there......:lol:
spaceddaisy
13-Oct-10, 19:37
I'm having an absolute blast this week.
Meeting loads of new people and trying different things.
The Mód fringe really does have something for everyone. Anyone looking to see what's on should try here http://www.caithnessmod2010.co.uk/en/fringe.html if you don't have a copy of the fringe brochure.
There's loads on that isn't in the booklet too, lots of bands on in pubs (most of which serve food so you can take kids in during the day).
pentlander
14-Oct-10, 23:02
Is it just me that's a bit underwhelmed with the whole thing and the town seems....well quiet.
Metalattakk
14-Oct-10, 23:48
Is it just me that's a bit underwhelmed with the whole thing and the town seems....well quiet.
Aye, it's just you. No, seriously. It's just you.
Every pub in Thurso has a live band tonight. The town is just hoaching with revellers. Even during the day there's tons of people milling around the town centre, there's bairns playing guitars and accordions in the precinct, pipers making their din all over the place. It's all magic.
Now I'm certainly no sympathiser for the Gaels and their (IMHO) dead language, but even I can recognise the palpably effervescent vibrancy that the Mod has gifted the county.
I kinda like it.
:eek:
buggyracer
15-Oct-10, 07:02
Aye, it's just you. No, seriously. It's just you.
Every pub in Thurso has a live band tonight. The town is just hoaching with revellers. Even during the day there's tons of people milling around the town centre, there's bairns playing guitars and accordions in the precinct, pipers making their din all over the place. It's all magic.
Now I'm certainly no sympathiser for the Gaels and their (IMHO) dead language, but even I can recognise the palpably effervescent vibrancy that the Mod has gifted the county.
I kinda like it.
:eek:
yes, yesterday there seemed a lot more people about, good atmosphere in all the bars day and night! :)
MusicWicker
15-Oct-10, 12:28
Aye, it's just you. No, seriously. It's just you.
Every pub in Thurso has a live band tonight. The town is just hoaching with revellers. Even during the day there's tons of people milling around the town centre, there's bairns playing guitars and accordions in the precinct, pipers making their din all over the place. It's all magic.
Now I'm certainly no sympathiser for the Gaels and their (IMHO) dead language, but even I can recognise the palpably effervescent vibrancy that the Mod has gifted the county.
I kinda like it.
:eek:
Replace the word 'County' with 'Thurso'
Metalattakk
15-Oct-10, 12:58
Aye aye, I read your bit in the paper today, and can agree with most of your sentiments.
The Mod organisers have some questions that need answering.
Been to some of the fringe events and when leaving 1 last night there were still folk going in and seeing so many walking about at 00.30 in Thurso was quite a shock to the system!
I have been out to a few things this week, some fringe and some events in bars, I was in the Pentland Hotel on Friday when some of the choirs were there and I think they said there were 44 mod gold medallists there some great choir singing and solos, I have also enjoyed a lot of the local artists in the bars this week, I think I have spent more time out this week than any week since I moved to Thurso over 10 years ago and I am not big fan of Gaelic but like all kinds of music
changilass
16-Oct-10, 12:46
Just back from the massed choir and pipe band parade through Thurso.
The bairn loved the bands (all 3 of them), he is still desperate to be a piper lol.
The choirs were magic. You certainly don't need to know the language to appreciate their vocals.
If I can afford it I would like to head to the Western Isles next year, but would like to learn a wee bitty of the language in the meantime.
A very well done and thank you to all involved.
peter macdonald
16-Oct-10, 14:34
Its great that the Mod seems to be have been a success at least in the west of the county...Just glad the hot air spouted by Cllrs Rosie,Smith and Steven hasnt caused too much damage
PM
spaceddaisy
16-Oct-10, 17:28
Having spoken to loads of visitors this week the Mód was definitely a success. Every single one of them commented on how friendly and welcoming the people of Caithness have been to them and the huge choice of activities on offer.
Every one of them said that they would love the Mód to come back to Caithness at some point in the future.
we went down to the town hall this morning to see the pipe band and hear the choirs sing, well say see, there was so many folk there we didnt see anything, but well done to the organsisers of the mod, brilliant job done.
buddyrich
16-Oct-10, 19:02
Aye, it's just you. No, seriously. It's just you.
Every pub in Thurso has a live band tonight. The town is just hoaching with revellers. Even during the day there's tons of people milling around the town centre, there's bairns playing guitars and accordions in the precinct, pipers making their din all over the place. It's all magic.
Now I'm certainly no sympathiser for the Gaels and their (IMHO) dead language, but even I can recognise the palpably effervescent vibrancy that the Mod has gifted the county.
I kinda like it.
:eek:
Living after mcmidnight!
What caught a lot of folk out is that the thing was portrayed as a week-long session of competitions and partying but really very little happened til Wednesday night. By that time the publicans were balking at the whole thing and panicking. I had gigs cancelled and when i tried to get replacements there was nothing to be had.
I think the official mod has gone well and the town did well for itself (i cant see that Wick benefitted from it in any way despite it being a county event) but the knock on effect from it in the fringe has been a complete non-event. The comm did well but then you'll have a popular pub if you have bbc trucks parked outside.
I cant see people clamouring for it to make a return any time soon. Well Raymond Bremner maybe but other than that, nah, damp squib.
changilass
16-Oct-10, 19:15
We went to 2 fringe events in Wick and 2 in Thurso, so was evenly balanced as far as I'm concerned.
Surely its up to the individual venues to put on fringe events and notify whoever it was as produced the fringe booklet.
I enjoyed the Mod itself and the fringe events and would happily support its return.
pentlander
16-Oct-10, 20:08
I think what is important is what I heard today from a publican. They where told by the people who knew what the mod was all about to provide entertainment every night because there would be thousands of people in the county. ''Second only to the Edinburgh festival''.
They have shelled out thousands booking bands but from what I heard today 2-3 thousand mod goers never came because we where to far away.
pentlander
16-Oct-10, 20:09
we went down to the town hall this morning to see the pipe band and hear the choirs sing, well say see, there was so many folk there we didnt see anything, but well done to the organsisers of the mod, brilliant job done.
From what I could see it was mainly locals who saved it.
weeboyagee
17-Oct-10, 14:01
Have just this minute had the first chance to get on the org in months! Would very quickly like to thank the THOUSANDS of folks who took part in the Mod, attended, supported, visited or otherwise contributed to Mod Ghallaibh 2010.
I am absolutely shattered - as are about 60 others who gave their all during Mod Ghallaibh 2010. The stewards, the car park attendents, the Mod Shuttle providers, all service providers - what a wonderful job you all did.
We have had so many positive comments of gratitude, kindness and thanks. Our visitors have had a wonderful time and all of them have commented that Mod Ghallaibh 2010 very much exceeded their expectations.
From the well attended events in Wick - including the opening ceremony, the fiddlers rally, the sports programme, the competitions, the ceilidhs, the Gaelic Service and the Celtic Praise along with the Fringe events including the Isabella Fortuna event, the Stevens Stage in the town centre and the well advertised and well attended events - Skerryvore and Bodega at the Waterfront etc, our sincerest thanks from the Local Organising Committee.
The Junior Mod started in Thurso on Monday and the crowds started building steadily to the climax of the adult choirs mid-week, as it happens at all the Mods. The Final night at Thurso High School and the Massed Choirs events also exceeded expectations.
Mile taing dhuibh uile. Many thanks to everyone!
Gach deagh dhurachd
Raymond
Can I just say I have thoroughly enjoyed the week of the Mod.
The entertainment put on has been fantastic and very child friendly.
WELL DONE to all concerned and I look forward to The Mod returning to Caithness.
weeboyagee, have pm'd you, hope you can help/advise, thanks either way. :) G.
Have enjoyed The MOD too, I only have three words of gaelic but sure appreciate a good tune and an excellent singer, just sad that I did n't get to more of the events.
Alice in Blunderland
18-Oct-10, 09:45
Some links on you tube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmiGvgQkGOw&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URvuW-mrTYo&NR=1
Is that weeboyagee giving the pub directions and instructions in the first clip. ;)
Alice in Blunderland
18-Oct-10, 09:49
And another one
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4azObxIk1M&feature=fvwk :D
My daughter of 15 gave up most of her school holidays to voulenteer as a stewart at the mod and sad to say she never even got as much as a thank you and on the last day never even got invited to the lunch i think its abseloute disgrace .:~(
changilass
18-Oct-10, 11:57
Everyone was thanked and invited to the soup and sandwiches by Raymond when he did his hand over speech at the end of the massed choirs.
The bits I saw of the Mod were great and I think it brought a buzz to the town. The choirs at the town hall were fantastic. Ive never seen so many in the town hall sqaure, ever.
Everyone was thanked and invited to the soup and sandwiches by Raymond
and I think they all accepted his invitation - just look at the queue!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs813.snc4/69380_480856901207_618136207_7362703_8175141_n.jpg
Alice in Blunderland
18-Oct-10, 12:39
My daughter of 15 gave up most of her school holidays to voulenteer as a stewart at the mod and sad to say she never even got as much as a thank you and on the last day never even got invited to the lunch i think its abseloute disgrace .:~(
I am absolutely shattered - as are about 60 others who gave their all during Mod Ghallaibh 2010. The stewards, the car park attendents, the Mod Shuttle providers, all service providers - what a wonderful job you all did.
We have had so many positive comments of gratitude, kindness and thanks.
Mile taing dhuibh uile. Many thanks to everyone!
Gach deagh dhurachd
Raymond
I noticed in Weeboyagees post above that there was some thanks and praise given to the volunteers. :D
As for the queue for the lunch bet they were hungry by the time they got it.
I'm sorry I missed the MOD will maybe catch it next time if they come again. :)
Alice in Blunderland
18-Oct-10, 16:39
I have just been given this website to view photos of the MOD and they are lovely. :D
http://grahamhoodphotography.com/viewing/
changilass
18-Oct-10, 16:46
Doesn't work for me Alice they all expired already.
Alice in Blunderland
18-Oct-10, 16:58
I tried it again and it worked.
Click on the link then on the boys on the left hand side. You will then be shown all the days of the mod available on three different pages . I went to the last day Saturday 16th on page 3 and clicked on it. You then have to click on enter a page loads showing you a slide show of the photos available with some lovely music playing. Try again and see if it works a bit fiddly but you get there. :D
spaceddaisy
18-Oct-10, 17:24
Cheers for those. They're fab!
changilass
18-Oct-10, 17:59
Doh, saw expiry dates and never even clicked, I'm a month ahead for some strange reason.
Thanks for posting the link Alice lovely photos, its good to see all the stuff we missed.
What a stunning collection of images, thanks for the link Alice.
Thank you for the link, Alice, the photos are absolutely stunning.
I had a wonderful few days during the Mod as a dear friend who was in first year at High school with me returned for a visit. As well as meeting some wonderful folk to talk to on our travels she was delighted to be able to re-trace her youth at Miller Academy and Thurso High school which were open as part of the Mod and also soak up the atmosphere in the various churches around Thurso too.
Congratulations to all concerned who made the effort to make this a Mod to remember.
Mr P Cannop
19-Oct-10, 09:48
did anyone got any videos on the pipe bands on the first night and on the last day ?? (sat) and (fri)
Alice in Blunderland
19-Oct-10, 09:57
Lots of praise for the people of Caithness on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=102778993025
cuddlepop
20-Oct-10, 16:17
I've spoken to two locals who attended the mod and both were of the opinion that "your a friendly" bunch.:D
Downside to the trip was the "cold",I did warn them.:lol:
Alice in Blunderland
21-Oct-10, 15:51
More video coverage of the last day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ItP4wjufN4&feature=player_embedded#!
How much money came into the Caithness economy from the Mod?
Dunno Bagpuss. Is there a purpose to your question?
The organisers claimed it would pull several millions into the county. Did it succeed?
weeboyagee
23-Oct-10, 11:32
An independent survey was undertaken last year at Oban. This plus information from previous independent surveys detail the potential. The former Caithness & Sutherland Enterprise also undertook a survey to measure the benefit to the East Sutherland area when Golspie hosted the National Mod in 1995. It is this information that the potential for the economy is based on. Hope that answers your question. If you have any other queries, by all means let me know.
Apart from that, the Local Organising Committee are aware that visitors were based all over the county - Latheronwheel, Lybster, Wick, Keiss, John O Groats, Castletown, Halkirk, Thurso, Watten, Melvich, Bettyhill and other places. Not all people at the Mod were seen in the same place at the same time, and not all visitors visited at the same time during the 9-day festival. We ensured that all this information was made available in detail at the various and many public seminars, forums and meetings advertised in the press.
The attendances at a lot of the events were record attendances and we tried to encourage the locals to attend as well as the visitors - the Opening Ceremony, the Fiddlers Rally, Gaelic Service and the Celtic Praise, all had record attendances. The link to the official photographers page has already been posted here to show what like these events were. Also, the final night had over 1,000 in attendance. The massed choirs also showed off a lot of the crowd that was still behind at the end of the event.
One thing is for sure - this was for Caithness to make a mark on the nation, and it certainly did that - I can't think of anything else that gave Caithness up to 4 hours TV promotion, live radio coverage and national news status every day of the week for 9 days. That in itself is something else!
WBG :cool:
An independent survey was undertaken last year at Oban. This plus information from previous independent surveys detail the potential. The former Caithness & Sutherland Enterprise also undertook a survey to measure the benefit to the East Sutherland area when Golspie hosted the National Mod in 1995. It is this information that the potential for the economy is based on. Hope that answers your question. If you have any other queries, by all means let me know.
Apart from that, the Local Organising Committee are aware that visitors were based all over the county - Latheronwheel, Lybster, Wick, Keiss, John O Groats, Castletown, Halkirk, Thurso, Watten, Melvich, Bettyhill and other places. Not all people at the Mod were seen in the same place at the same time, and not all visitors visited at the same time during the 9-day festival. We ensured that all this information was made available in detail at the various and many public seminars, forums and meetings advertised in the press.
The attendances at a lot of the events were record attendances and we tried to encourage the locals to attend as well as the visitors - the Opening Ceremony, the Fiddlers Rally, Gaelic Service and the Celtic Praise, all had record attendances. The link to the official photographers page has already been posted here to show what like these events were. Also, the final night had over 1,000 in attendance. The massed choirs also showed off a lot of the crowd that was still behind at the end of the event.
One thing is for sure - this was for Caithness to make a mark on the nation, and it certainly did that - I can't think of anything else that gave Caithness up to 4 hours TV promotion, live radio coverage and national news status every day of the week for 9 days. That in itself is something else!
WBG :cool:
I have only heard total praise for the event - well done to everyone involved in taking it to Caithness.
buddyrich
23-Oct-10, 17:52
No doubt the mod itself was a resounding success and it was nice to have Caithness on the telly, etc. There still remains a schism over how the mod liased with local service providers which will probably never be resolved. Is it simply sour grapes on the part of some business owners who didnt do as well as others? Or was there a misunderstanding about what was expected on the part of local businesses, organisers and attendees? Or did the mod committee simply overstate the scale of the thing in order to generate enthusiasm for the event being held in an area that is undeniably not mod country?
I've heard all three viewpoints and think it's an amalgam of them all. Fair enough, it's never been held up here before but i wouldnt expect wholescale support for its return without some questions being asked.
Tubthumper
23-Oct-10, 23:52
We can all learn from the experience and do it even better next time! :D
buddyrich
24-Oct-10, 00:37
There should be a Caithness Up Helly Aa too. Celebrate our historic, cultural and linguistic ties with the Northern Isles and Norway.
changilass
24-Oct-10, 00:44
Who would want to organise it??
A lot of effort is put into these things.
When all that happens is either apathy or folks moaning that they didn't get recognition or treated fairly, then its surprising anyone does owt.
Well done to those that do put up with all the crap to try to entertain the rest of us, some of us appreciate it.
buddyrich
24-Oct-10, 00:48
Ach well. Back to the x factor then.
Alice in Blunderland
24-Oct-10, 09:59
There should be a Caithness Up Helly Aa too. Celebrate our historic, cultural and linguistic ties with the Northern Isles and Norway.
Crack on !
Spend a good few years,many, many, hours organising the event then afterwards sit back and watch the usual few mump, moan, complain and whine that it wasn't what they expected or have a go at those who tried their very best to bring something positive to the area.
We are all of us human no one is perfect however some of us do give enough of a damn to get up go out there and do something for our community. Though at times even I wonder why they bother:roll:
Its always the same! Some things never change.
Oh and here have this
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR0UHA2D0xiII-w6ZOJ6Wqc-vnBEL3-5buKpmqEhrLb3kc0HKY&t=1&usg=__kAqu3dgJDpbKORDkddH1-Kq3rpk=
Looks to me like you are trying to stir things up.
There should be a Caithness Up Helly Aa too. Celebrate our historic, cultural and linguistic ties with the Northern Isles and Norway.
I dont think the Zetlanders would let you get away with that.
I am ashamed to say that I did not attend any of the Mod events, but admire those who gave their time freely to arrange everything, but when a statement is made ie 'The attendances at a lot of the events were record attendances', can they explain what the statement is based on as the Mod has never been held in Caithness before.
I did watch the programmes on TV and enjoyed them.
buddyrich
24-Oct-10, 12:40
Probably not. But it's nice to be reminded that Caithness is historically a Norse area and not Gaelic country-Selah!
Alice in Blunderland
24-Oct-10, 18:21
'The attendances at a lot of the events were record attendances', can they explain what the statement is based on as the Mod has never been held in Caithness before.
As far as Im aware all the MODs follow the same routine each year ie: opening event, church event, mass choirs etc.
Each year they monitor how many attend each event I would assume this would be what they are comparing Caithness attendances to. :)
I'm with Alice. I think the "mix" was just right. Well done all.:D
northener
25-Oct-10, 07:43
Well done to all those involved in the Mod, I hope we see it again soon.
A Norse festival? Sounds good to me.
Let us know when it's organised.
How about a Yorkshire Eckie Thump competition.
Could be run along the lines of the Highland Games, with support from local Yorkshire Art and Crafts, catering (fish Chips and tea).
A Lurcher show, the whole bit? :cool:
Paul_and_Anna
25-Oct-10, 11:00
How about a Yorkshire Eckie Thump competition.
Could be run along the lines of the Highland Games, with support from local Yorkshire Art and Crafts, catering (fish Chips and tea).
A Lurcher show, the whole bit? :cool:
You left out Cheese rolling!!!
There would also have to be Cricket of course ....... Gurning ...... Ferrets down clothing, timed ....... not to mention the inevitable Pie eating competition .....
How about a Yorkshire Eckie Thump competition.
Could be run along the lines of the Highland Games, with support from local Yorkshire Art and Crafts, catering (fish Chips and tea).
A Lurcher show, the whole bit? :cool:
I think you may have the wrong shire Ducati, Eckie Thump is from Lancashire, but I like the idea, there are many from both Yorkshire & Lancashire, now resident in owld Kaithness [lol]
changilass
25-Oct-10, 11:16
1st August every year and everyone should be wearing a white rose (good news for the local florists).
A quick google found this, a bitty out of date but gives the general gist, and shows that every area celebrates Yorkshire day a little different.
http://www.yorkshire.com/yorkshire-day
You left out Cheese rolling!!!
There would also have to be Cricket of course ....... Gurning ...... Ferrets down clothing, timed ....... not to mention the inevitable Pie eating competition .....
Wow! it's really coming together, keep the ideas coming folks :eek:
Paul_and_Anna
25-Oct-10, 13:56
Wow! it's really coming together, keep the ideas coming folks :eek:
I'm thinking we might need to add Bog Snorkelling and a Black Pudding competition ............
I'm thinking we might need to add Bog Snorkelling and a Black Pudding competition ............
Just don't mention Morris Dancing !!!!!!!!!!!! [disgust][evil]
Just don't mention Morris Dancing !!!!!!!!!!!! [disgust][evil]
Why? .............................. :p
changilass
25-Oct-10, 16:30
Cos Morris is a crap dancer[lol] and it aint a Yorkshire thing anyhow.
Oh right! Wish I hadn't asked now :eek:
Cheese rolling intrigues me.
We might have to adapt it for Caithness' rolling landscape and not having a convenient steep hill handy.
I humbly offer Cheese Plummeting :cool:;
You chuck about 1/2 dozen cheeses off Dunnet Head closely followed by 20 or so Yorkshire persons and see who wins by landing in the sea first. :eek:
changilass
25-Oct-10, 17:06
Ohhhhhh the YRA are comming to get you Ducati.
Ohhhhhh the YRA are comming to get you Ducati.
:eek::eek::eek:
Paul_and_Anna
25-Oct-10, 23:23
Cheese rolling intrigues me.
We might have to adapt it for Caithness' rolling landscape and not having a convenient steep hill handy.
I humbly offer Cheese Plummeting :cool:;
You chuck about 1/2 dozen cheeses off Dunnet Head closely followed by 20 or so Yorkshire persons and see who wins by landing in the sea first. :eek:
No contest! The Cheese will hit the sea first.
Why?
Because the Yorkshire folk will use their combination underwear as a type of parachute! (Aided by the wind gained from the pie eating contest - Not much fun for the ferret if he's still in the underwear though.)
Logic to the last breath ...........
weeboyagee
26-Oct-10, 13:03
.... but when a statement is made ie 'The attendances at a lot of the events were record attendances', can they explain what the statement is based on as the Mod has never been held in Caithness before.
No bother for the explanation, since it's my post your quoting - reference to the previous Mods held in other areas and similar events held there. An indication to the level of support that the Caithness Mod received.
WBG :cool:
weeboyagee
26-Oct-10, 13:09
Probably not. But it's nice to be reminded that Caithness is historically a Norse area and not Gaelic country-Selah!
You missed the whole branding of the Caithness Mod then - the celtic band, knoll and shape of the norse long ship and the fiddle representing the music of both cultures.
You also missed one of the main Fringe Events - Gaelic and Norse in the Landscape - and the book launch - an open event, where a lot of the material including the invitations for dignitaries to attend, was tri-lingual.
You missed also one of the run-up events to the Mod - the lectures given by Alasdair Mearns at the Swanson Gallery and the links to Caithness dialect with Norse and Gaelic.
I could go on about the other areas where we tried, but weren't obliged to, incorporate more than the Gaelic links only in Caithness,..... but was I missing your point? And let me know what other we should have looked at doing - apart from, that is, turning the Mod into a Norse Festival for you.
WBG :cool:
weeboyagee
26-Oct-10, 13:15
Just don't mention Morris Dancing !!!!!!!!!!!!
When I went to an event in Thrumster House many years ago, it was Morris Dancers in attendance. It was an amazing night. They were over from Washington DC. They had such a great night with the locals, the troop of dancers stayed for a couple of days before they moved on.
When representing Scotland in 2000 at the USA Mod, we bridged another cultural gap. We got together with the very same troop whom we had kept in touch with and had a brilliant night in Glen Echo, Maryland - and a fine lock-in afterwards! Should've invited the norse though, should've invited the norse - just to keep things even and not put noses out of joint! Damn it - will I ever remember???? ;)
WBG :cool:
northener
26-Oct-10, 15:33
American Morris dancers?:eek:
Good God, that ought to be illegal.
They'll be wearing kilts next....uh, hang on a minute.....:confused
buddyrich
27-Oct-10, 00:36
You missed the whole branding of the Caithness Mod then - the celtic band, knoll and shape of the norse long ship and the fiddle representing the music of both cultures.
You also missed one of the main Fringe Events - Gaelic and Norse in the Landscape - and the book launch - an open event, where a lot of the material including the invitations for dignitaries to attend, was tri-lingual.
You missed also one of the run-up events to the Mod - the lectures given by Alasdair Mearns at the Swanson Gallery and the links to Caithness dialect with Norse and Gaelic.
I could go on about the other areas where we tried, but weren't obliged to, incorporate more than the Gaelic links only in Caithness,..... but was I missing your point? And let me know what other we should have looked at doing - apart from, that is, turning the Mod into a Norse Festival for you.
WBG :cool:
You seem to have. I said that Caithness is not gaelic country and is historically nordic, compared to somewhere like...........Barra, for example. Am i wrong?
weeboyagee
27-Oct-10, 13:31
You seem to have. I said that Caithness is not gaelic country and is historically nordic, compared to somewhere like...........Barra, for example. Am i wrong?
Caithness is not Gaelic country, nor is it nordic. Neither of the two are indigenous to Caithness, both "arrived". Historically - both have played their part hence my reference to my original post in response to yours - where we incorporated both during the festival. You ask me if you are wrong? I would say you are misinformed or you have drawn the wrong conclusion from wherever or whatever you have based your assessment.
WBG :cool:
buddyrich
27-Oct-10, 14:48
The most obvious remnant of it is the multitude of place names that are of norse origin. Gaelic as a language and culture has made very little imprint on the county historically. In contemporary terms, well, note the furore over putting gaelic on the road signs.
It was grand the mod made reference to Caithness having a norse history, good show-as my friend Jeid would say, have a cookie. But gaelic does not have the historic significance that you infer it does and you're smarting over the fact that someone questions whether a festival of gaelic has relevance to Caithness over other places where gaelic is "indigenous". And as i pointed out above, people dont even want it on their road signs.
But hey, bring it back in the year 20 whatever and im sure it'll be as successful. Expect a cool reception from local businesses though.
Caithness is not Gaelic country, nor is it nordic. Neither of the two are indigenous to Caithness, both "arrived". Historically - both have played their part hence my reference to my original post in response to yours - where we incorporated both during the festival. You ask me if you are wrong? I would say you are misinformed or you have drawn the wrong conclusion from wherever or whatever you have based your assessment.
WBG :cool:
Aye WBG, and Gaelic was in Caithness first, the vikings never turned up until after 885. And were turfed out around 1231, so with less than 400 years influence by my reckoning, I would say that in that case Caithness is predominately of Scots decent, and the majority of Scots accept Gaelic as being part of our culture.
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