Jimmy Tainsh Appointed 2026 Chieftain
Jimmy Tainsh Appointed 2026 Chieftain
Iain Dewar, Chairman of Crieff Highland Gathering, is delighted toannounce that local businessman and lifelong Crieff Highland Gathering supporterJimmy Tainsh has been appointed Chieftain for the 2026 Crieff Highland Games,taking place on Sunday 16th August 2026 at Market Park.
Born and raised in the Crieff area, Jimmy has deep roots in the localcommunity and has spent a lifetime supporting organisations, events and peopleacross Strathearn and beyond. A farmer and merchant by trade, Jimmy is widelyrespected for his quiet generosity, community spirit and willingness to helpothers, often working behind the scenes without seeking recognition. Jimmy and his wife Jennifer have long beeninvolved in community life in Crieff and Comrie, with Jimmy having been anactive member of Crieff Round Table for many years earlier in his life. Theirsons, Andrew and Gavin, were also brought up with a strong connection to theGames and local traditions.
On accepting the role, Jimmy said, “I was genuinely shocked when I wasasked and feel it is a very special honour. The Games have always meant a greatdeal to me and my family. I’ve gone most years apart from when the harvest gotin the way. Some of my earliest memories are of sitting in the old grandstandwith my father William during the pipe band nights in the 1970s. The prospectof now to be standing in front of the Massed Pipe Bands as Chieftain is quiteemotional.”
Jimmy added, “The Crieff Highland Games have a very long tradition, mygrandfather James was also a sponsor and the event is something all localssupport; from the Directors and competitors to the volunteers and spectators.It’s a great coming together for Crieff and wonderful for the town as peopletravel from all over the world to attend.”
Throughout the years, Jimmy and the Tainsh family business haveconsistently supported local events and organisations throughout Crieff,Strathearn and Perthshire.
Jennifer described her husband as “a quiet, down-to-earth man who neverseeks attention and is always available to offer advice or help where he can.”She added, “He genuinely doesn’t think honours like this are for him, which isexactly why he deserves it.”
Chairman Iain Dewar said, “Jimmy is one of those people who has quietlysupported the local community for decades without ever looking for recognition.He is hugely respected throughout the area and perfectly represents the valuesand traditions of the Crieff Highland Games. We are absolutely delighted he hasagreed to become our Chieftain for 2026.”
As Chieftain, Jimmy will help promote the Games throughout the summer,judge the popular Tartan Up the Town competition, lead the pipe band parade onGames Day, officially open the Gathering and take the prestigious Chieftain’sSalute during the spectacular Massed Pipe Bands finale.
