North Lanarkshire hosted its first ever local Mòd on Saturday 20 September at Greenfaulds High School in Cumbernauld, giving young people and families the chance to come together and celebrate Gaelic language, music, and culture.
It was organised by a local community group - Mod Siorrachd Lannraig a Tuath, which is made up entirely of local volunteers, with the aim of continuing the tradition within their community.
The event, which included a variety of competitions in Gaelic singing and poetry, was supported thanks to a grant of £1,500 from UKSE, a subsidiary of Tata Steel.
Provost Kenneth Duffy said: "It was wonderful to see first-hand the enthusiasm for the Gaelic language at North Lanarkshire's first ever local mod.
“I was lucky enough to hear some of our young pupils compete in the Gaelic singing competition and they all did themselves proud. Well done to the committee for organising such a vibrant and welcoming event for the Gaelic community.”
The Cumbernauld event was one of many local Mòds taking place across Scotland throughout the year, in addition to the National Mòd, which Lanarkshire has proudly hosted three times—in Airdrie, Motherwell, and East Kilbride.
Rachael Deans, who helps organise Mod Siorrachd Lannraig a Tuath and teaches at Condorrat Primary, a local Gaelic school, said: “This Mod will be a real benefit to children, families, teachers, and community groups across North Lanarkshire and beyond.
“It gives young people the chance to build their language skills, learn more about Gaelic culture, and express themselves creatively in a supportive setting. Schools will also strengthen their connection to Scotland’s national heritage.”
Antoinette Muirhead, from the organising committee, added: “We’re absolutely delighted with how well the local Mod went on Saturday. Over 100 people of all ages came along, and we held more than 25 competitions.
“It was brilliant to see so many people taking part and celebrating the Gaelic language. A huge thank you to everyone who took part, volunteered, or helped organise the event. We’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year!”
An Comunn Gàidhealach organise Local Mòds, which help to promote and develop Gaelic language, history, and heritage.
North Lanarkshire offers Gaelic medium education at Tollbrae nursery in Airdrie, and at Condorrat Primary School and Greenfaulds High School in Cumbernauld.
And the area also has a small number of Gaelic choirs, regular Gaelic events, and even shinty tournaments.