PICTURES: (Wool) Nessie spotted ahead of Loch Ness Knit Fest; Highland crafter uses yarn from Dragons' Den business

Visitors to Loch Ness yesterday may have been in for a surprise, as a giant knitted Nessie made its way on to the shore.

Her arrival signals the beginning of this year’s Loch Ness Knit Fest, which is becoming a key event in any yarn enthusiast's calendar.

The woolly Nessie was lovingly hand-crafted by Black Isle based Woolly Birdie who has used yarn supplied by Wool Couture, former visitor to Dragons' Den who was successful in securing an investment from both Touker Suleyman and Tej Lalvani.

Festival director Cecilia Grigor expects the three-day event, which starts at Inverness Leisure tomorrow, to attract up to 2000 people.

Workshops will run tomorrow and Friday, and aim to introduce or improve knitting, crochet and spinning skills – including an introduction to Fair Isle knitting, which will be taught by Hazel Tindal, officially the world’s fastest knitter.

Guests will also be able to browse a marketplace which will be home to more than 50 vendors on Friday and Saturday.

The event will also feature entertainment by Highland dancers, local musicians and a fashion show.

There is also a trio of evening events, with a knit-a-long at the Mercure Hotel tomorrow led by Danish designer Christel Seyfarth, a Highland feast at the hotel on Friday and a concert at Bogbain Farm on Saturday.

Related article: Inverness Town House included in display of hand-crafted items on show ahead of Loch Ness Knit Fest

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