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Article published 30/07/2025

STV’s weather anchor, Sean Batty, and entertainment presenter, Laura Boyd, will be joining thousands of people in Dunoon Stadium on Saturday 30 August.

They will accept the salute from the massed bands and present the trophies in the World Highland Dancing and Cowal Pipe Band championships.

As well as their television work, Sean and Laura are active ambassadors for the STV Children’s Appeal, raising thousands of pounds for the charity.

Visitors to Cowal Gathering will have the opportunity to find out more about the appeal or to make a donation at one of the donation points around the stadium on Gathering Saturday.

There will also be the opportunity to donate with online ticket purchases as well as collections throughout the event.

This year’s Cowal Gathering runs from Thursday 28 to Saturday 30 August.

Cowal Gathering is supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland, through their International Events Funding Programme.

Find out more at cowalgathering.com

People posing on a branded carSean Batty and Laura Boyd with the Children's Appeal Mobile. © STV

I know I also speak for Laura when I say what a huge honour it is for us to be this year’s Cowal Gathering Honorary Chieftains.

We can’t wait to experience Saturday’s events and I’m sure we’ll be as competitive as ever when it comes to trying our hand at some of the activities.

We’re also delighted to be representing the STV Children’s Appeal and would like to thank the Cowal Games for having us along.

It’s going to be a fantastic day. I’ll be sure to provide a detailed weather update in advance, so we know whether its sunscreen and shades or wellies at the ready.

Sean Batty, Weather Anchor, STV

I’m absolutely delighted that Sean and Laura will be heading to Dunoon Stadium on Gathering Saturday.

Every year, we try to ensure that our Chieftain excels in their chosen field.

This year we’ve gone one better, with two Chieftains who are household names who, away from the television studios, throw themselves into fundraising for children and their families affected by poverty across Scotland.

Sean and Laura will have the opportunity to walk around the Stadium and take in sights and sounds, including the pipe bands, Highland dancing and heavy athletics. They will also have the chance to watch some of our Top Field demonstrations, try their and hand at axe throwing and visit the Live Music Tent. I’m hopeful that Sean may be able to bring the sunshine too.

David Mitchell MBE, Chair, Cowal Gathering

The Cowal Gathering is a vibrant celebration of Scottish culture and community, and we’re proud to support it as part of our diverse portfolio of events and festivals.

From traditional Highland Games to world-class performances, it offers visitors an unforgettable experience that showcases the very best of Argyll and Bute.

Events like these play a vital role in growing Scotland’s visitor economy by attracting audiences from near and far, supporting local businesses, and reinforcing our reputation as a world-leading tourism and events destination.

Rob Dickson, Director of Industry and Events, VisitScotland

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