Closing Date for Royal National Mod Entries Draws Near

With entries for the Royal National Mod ’08 flowing in thick and fast An Comunn Gaidhealach’s administration team is busy preparing for this year’s event, which is to be held in Falkirk for the first time ever. Although many entries have already been received and processed An Comunn Gaidhealach expect a large influx before the official closing date of Friday 31^st May and are again stressing the importance of complete entries being received on time.

Janet MacDonald, Royal National Mod Convenor reiterated this view saying “We are extremely happy with the number of entries received so far and anticipate more in the coming week. I must again remind potential competitors that any late and/or incomplete entries received after that date will not be accepted to ensure equality for all competitors.”

Although the Mod has never before been held in Falkirk it seems that the area is embracing this move: ‘There’s been a great response so far to all of the competitions and we’re delighted to see many local groups and individuals step forward and take part in this year’s event.” said Cllr Angus MacDonald, Chair of the Mod 2008 Local Organising Committee.

The continuing success of Gaeldom’s premier cultural festival was stressed by An Comunn Gaidhealach President John Macleod who stated: “ Every year we see considerable interest in Mod competitions especially amongst the younger generation of Gaelic speakers. The whole event provides a window of opportunity for the Gaelic world to celebrate its language and culture, and I’m certain that Falkirk will be a lively centre of Gaelic activity in October.”     

Entry forms can be obtained online at http://www.the-mod.co.uk/english/frames.htm or by contacting Rena MacAskill, National Mod Administrator on 01463 709705 or by email info@the-mod.co.uk

Mod 2008 will take place on 10^th-17^th October this year and is supported by a number of public and private sector organisations including Falkirk Council, Caledonian MacBrayne, The Royal Bank of Scotland and The Royal Mail.  In addiction to the many competitions and concerts an innovative programme of informal “fringe” activities is also being organised by the local committee.