WHILE the 164th Famous Alva Games is unable to go ahead for a second year, organisers are keeping the event fresh in the public eye.

The games committee is organising a range of activities in the lead up to July 10, when the long-running annual event was due to take place.

People are being invited to safely observe a short opening ceremony on games day.

A contest and a quiz are also being held in town to keep the spirit of competition alive.

The Best Dressed Shop Window Contest, which has the theme "The Games", will be judged next Tuesday, July 6.

On the same night, the Annual Quiz will go ahead at the Number 5 Inn with entries now closed for teams.

The winners of the Best Dressed Shop Window Contest will be announced on Thursday, July 8, and will be presented with their prizes outside their shop at 11am on the day.

Games day, July 10, will see the short opening ceremony at the traditional time of 1pm at the Cochrane and Johnstone Parks.

James Sharp, chairman the Famous Alva Games, told the Advertiser: "We want the games to continue to play their pivotal role in the month of July and are putting on these events to show that, while the full programme of events is not possible, we can still involve the townsfolk in our annual spectacular, even if in a reduced format.

"We are happy that people come along to watch, listen to and enjoy the short event, albeit while observing the prevailing Covid rules on social distancing.

"Our objective though is undoubtedly to be back with a full programme on July 9, 2022."

The opening ceremony will include a welcome from both chairman Mr Sharp and Clackmannanshire Vice Lord Lieutenant John Spruce.

It will also see a highland dancing display, accompanied by two pipers.

Winners of the Annual Quiz will also be presented with their prizes while some hardy athletes will take on the Torry Hill challenge, running the full hill race course.

It is unlikely there will be any fairground attractions due to pandemic restrictions.