Macleods and the Macaulays take centre stage at this year’s Mòd

Solo singers Torquil MacLeod and Claire Macaulay from Lewis triumphed in a nerve- racking final to become proud winners of the coveted traditional gold medals at this year’s Royal National Mòd in the Western Isles.

Presenting their prizes was award sponsors, Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie’s corporate partner, Angus MacLeod - no relation to Torquil and no stranger himself to taking centre stage at the Mòd!

Angus MacLeod said: “I have grown up in a family in which Gaelic language and culture, and Gaelic songs in particular, have been held in high regard. I started competing at Mòds from the age of eight and as an adult I was fortunate enough to win the traditional gold medal in 1996 and the An Comunn gold medal in 2014. I still like to keep my hand in!”Angus has also been a member of the Inverness Gaelic choir for three years.

“The Inverness choir did very well at this year’s Mòd choral championships where we won the Puirt a Beul competition and came second in the Lovat & Tullibardine competition” he said. “It’s been a terrific showcase this year and it’s been particularly rewarding to be involved both as a competitor and as a sponsor.”

The eight-day celebration of Gaelic language, music and culture involves more than 200 competitions in Highland dancing, sport, literature, drama, Gaelic music and song.