Lover of local Highland Games to be remembered at Stirling event
A Stirling-born lover of Highland dancing who died just hours before she could fulfil her final wish of attending Bridge of Allan Highland Games is to be remembered at this year's event.
Helen Currie's family had planned to take her to the 2024 Games - but she passed away that morning.
At this year's Games, however, they will see The Helen Currie Memorial Cup presented for Junior Overall Premier Winner in Highland Dancing.
Helen's daughter Kate Leeke told the Observer: 'My mother had strong ties to Stirling, and the new trophy is being awarded in her memory at this year's Bridge of Allan Highland Games.
'My mum was born in Stirling, married at St Mark's Church in the Raploch, and raised four children who were all educated locally.
'Although she later moved to Essex for work and lived there for over 40 years, her heart remained in Scotland. She was a frequent visitor back home, staying closely connected to family, friends, and heritage.
'In December 2023, we brought Mum to Scotland for Christmas. Sadly, during her visit she became very unwell and was admitted to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. She never recovered enough to return to England, but she told us she felt she had 'come home'.
'After time in hospital and a rehabilitation centre, she eventually moved into Oakeshott Care Home in Stirling.
'Mum had a deep love for Scottish culture. She adored the sound of the pipes and always looked forward to the Edinburgh Tattoo.
'When we were young, both my brother and I were Highland dancers – something she was immensely proud of.
'One of her final wishes was to attend the Bridge of Allan Highland Games to see the dancers and the pipe bands once again.
'We had planned to take her on Sunday August 4, 2024.
'Heartbreakingly, she passed away that very morning.'
Helen's family contacted the Games organisers and arranged for a new trophy to be presented in her memory - The Helen Currie Memorial Cup – to be awarded annually.
'They generously agreed,' said Kate, 'and my family will have the honour of presenting the cup this August, the anniversary of her passing.
'It's a tribute not only to our Mum but to her lifelong love of Scottish traditions and community.'
There are currently several Premier sections divided into the following ages: 10 yrs and Under; 12 years and Under; 14 years and Under; 6 years and Under; 17-19yrs; 20 years and Over.
Each of these sections have overall awards, but this new trophy will be won by the dancer with the most points across the youngest three sections, so 14 years; junior overall premier winner.
World champion curler Bruce Mouat has been announced as the chieftain of this year's Bridge of Allan Highland Games, which this year take place on Sunday August 3.
Events on the schedule include the heavyweights, athletics, cycling, wrestling, Highland Dancing and pipe bands events plus much more.
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