Singer hits right notes at Bothy Ballads contest

Retired crofter makes history while keeping the Doric tradition alive

An Angus performer has sung his way into the history books after becoming the Bothy Ballads Champion of Champions for a seventh year.

Joe Aitken, from Kirriemuir, secured the coveted porridge bowl and spurtle trophy and the Donald Ferguson Medal at this year’s Bothy Ballads, as it made its return to Moray on Saturday.

The 75-year-old began competing in 1986 and he last claimed the title in 2018 for his rendition of Bogie’s Bonnie Belle.

During the event, the retired crofter this time performed a spellbinding rendition of the ballad The Hearst o’ Rettie, securing him the top spot over a field that included last year’s winner, Hector Riddle from Finzean.

Dozens packed Elgin Town Hall for the 38th annual competition, organised by Elgin Rotary Club, to celebrate the traditional Doric farming songs.

Crofters in the north-east developed the tunes to entertain themselves while they worked.

Mr Aitken said of his success: “I’m fair chuffed about it. It’s great to win.

“Some days you just know you are in good form and last night everything just seemed to click.”

Judges Pete Shepherd and Jimmy Hutchison called his performance “immaculate” and Mr Aitken said the competition was hugely important in keeping the tradition alive.

Rotary Club president, Margaret Stenton, said: “We’re proud we can help to make sure this unique part of the cultural heritage of the north-east is kept alive in this very entertaining way.”

Joe Aitken, from Kirriemuir, performing at Bothy Ballads.