Thousands expected to descend on Stonehaven for annual fireballs ceremony

Thousands are expected to descend on Stonehaven for the town’s annual fireballs ceremony.

It’s one of the oldest Hogmanay traditions in the world, and sees locals swing balls of fire overhead to bring in the bells.

The Stonehaven fireballs are an ancient tradition, with many believing the fire destroys evil spirits from the past year.

Around 50 locals will be walking through the town, swinging great balls of fire overhead – and Kelsey Stewart is one of them.

Kelsey is taking part in the Stonehaven fireballs this year STV News

“I really wanted to give back to the local community, I was brought up in Stonehaven, I went to school here, I work here in the local school and I love the thrill of the whole ceremony. It’s great to be part of it.

“It’s really unique to Stonehaven, we have people from all over the world and it’s brilliant that they can come to Stonehaven and see how fantastic a place it is and enjoy their time here.”

It is set to be a chilly night in Stonehaven however, as temperatures dip ahead of a yellow weather warning for snow and ice set to come into force on New Year’s Day.

But for Kelsey, she will be feeling the heat rather than the chill.

She added: “It’s roasting when youre swinging your fireball, you do have layers on but you work up a sweat quite quickly. It is quite heavy, around five to six kilos and youre walking up and down the High Street quite a few times so it certainly gets a sweat on!”

The event kicks off around 10pm on Hogmanay so if you are heading to the fireballs, make sure to wrap up warm.