THE 161st Famous Alva Games looks set to be a great day out.

The event, which welcomes people from all over the world, will take place at the Johnstone Park this weekend.

Last year saw around 3000 flock to the Hillfoots town from other parts of Clackmannanshire and further afield.

Visitors hailed from the likes of America, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Spain and many more.

The Alva event demonstrated its appeal right across the globe, a dozen runners from Paris and a gentleman from Seattle were amongst the competitors on the day.

On Saturday, July 8, starting at 12.30pm, the games will bring a host of competitions and attractions, all set against the backdrop of the Ochil Hills.

Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band will lead the guests into the arena just before 1pm, playing again at the interval.

The games will feature the full range of traditional events, such as athletics, cycling, highland dancing and also heavy weights.

The crowning glory of the day, as with every year, is sure to be the four hill races run over Torry.

This is for competitors from under 12-years-old, all the way up to the British Championship Hill Race at around 4.15pm.

There will be fun races over short distances for visiting children, four age restricted races for girls and the same for boys.

In addition, there will be events for visiting adults in the form of longer distance races, with a separate run for ladies and gents, minimum age is 18.

Guest of honour for 2017 is Bert Hutchison, who will attend with his wife Andrena, known for his running triumphs at home and abroad.

He has been involved in the games for a long time and was a sponsor of the youths' 90 metres for many years.

In 1980, Bert picked up the Open Sprint prize during the event, cruising up the Johnstone Park slope in an impressive time of 9.80 seconds.

There will also be a traditional fun fair on the day from noon.