Hector Riddell won back the coveted porridge bowl and spurtle trophy in front of a packed audience in Elgin at the weekend. The 37th running of the celebration of traditional Doric farming songs brings together winners of six regional events and last year’s defending champion, who was Joe Aitken.
Agricultural workers developed the tunes generations ago in order to keep themselves entertained while they grafted in the fields.
Competitions are held throughout the year in Aberdeen, Kirriemuir, Turriff, Falkland, Keith and Strichen before the Elgin climax to keep the unique part of the north’s rich farming heritage alive. Read the article in the Press and Journal here https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/moray/elgin/1674366/hector-cements-his-place-in-bothy-ballad-folklore-as-he-takes-title-for-the-sixth-time/