This year's chieftain will be a familiar figure to regular visitors to HeImsdale Highland Games. George has been a member of the committee since the games were revived in 1981. In the past he has been the announcer on the day, but in recent years he has been in charge of the efficient band of volunteers in the beer tent.
Born in a thatched cottage in Gartymore, where his family have lived continuously since before the Highland Clearances, George has spent all his life in Helmsdale. He attended Helmsdale School, where he won the Hercher Cup for sports.
He joined the firm of Alexander Sutherland and served his time as a joiner, first in the Helmsdale, then in Golspie. He worked all over the Highlands from Tongue to Lochinver to Fortrose, another reason why he is still recognised in far flung corners of the county. When the firm closed, George started his own business in Helmsdale, where he trained and employed several apprentices. In 1988 he was persuaded to take over the undertaking business of A R McLeod. If asked, he will tell you that he is now "winding down" to retirement - slowly!
He has been involved in many aspects of village life, having served in the Fire Brigade, the Auxiliary Coastguards, the Red Cross and being a member of the local Flower Show committee. He was also a keen member of the Royal Observer Corps until it was disbanded. His interests include gardening, beekeeping and walking an energetic dog.
George and his family have all been involved in the Games over the years. His wife, Joan, is the treasurer, daughter Kay used to help with the piping events, and son Gordon was one of the first competitors in the junior heavy events and the first standard bearer. They have not all been able to attend the Games in recent years, but hope to make this year a real family occasion, with Kay and husband Andrew, Gordon with wife Kate and daughters Lucy and Olivia all hoping to make it home.
George and Joan are looking forward to being released from their duties this year, so that they can relax, see the events and just enjoy the day.