Royal National Mod returns to Oban birthplace

THIS year’s Royal National Mod kicked off today in Oban, where it was founded in the late 19th century, and opened with a homecoming concert headlined by Donald Shaw and Karen Matheson of Capercaillie.

Ross McLeish, 14, prepares for this years Royal National Mod, accompanied by dancers from Isla Sinclair School of Dance. Picture: www.modanobain2015.com/Wire Media

Organised by An Comunn Gàidhealach, the Mod has returned to Oban for the 16th time, and will run until 17 October.

Last year’s Mod, held in Inverness, was its most successful yet, generating £3.5 million for the town’s economy as it welcomed 9,000 visitors.

Organisers hope to exceed that number and welcome 10,000 to the Mod’s birthplace.