If hard work and dedication merit recognition then it is easy to see why the Games Committee has chosen Andy Sutherland to be their Chieftain in 2006.

Andy was born in Helmsdale and after receiving his education locally and latterly at the Sutherland Technical Annexe in Golspie, left school to follow his first love - the sea.
Here he accumulated over thirty years of experience in the north Sea and Moray Firth, culminating in the ownership of his own seine netters, first the " Glen Loth" and later the "Strathdonan". At present he fishes for shellfish out of Helmsdale Harbour.

Andy has been an active member of the Games Committee since 1982 and was most recently it's chairman for seven years. In earlier times he competed in the local heavyweight events, winning the Frank Macpherson Salver and Bannockburn Trophy on several occasions. The Fly Casting event serves to demonstrate his skill with rod and line, a talent which is further exhibited when he acts as ghillie on the River Helmsdale.

His athletic involvement include having played football for Helmsdale United, coaching the youth team Castle Rovers, and actively supporting the Shinty Club and all youth involvement in sport. In addition he has served on the community Council, the Lifeboat Committee and is much in demand as a popular local Disc Jockey for celebrations and charity fundraising events.

Andy is married to Fiona and they have two of a family - Yvonne married to Graham, now with grandchild Aaron, and Euan engaged to Claire.

Andy has been an active and enthusiastic supporter of Helmsdale Games, and the committee trusts that he will enjoy his elevation to the office of Chieftain.