Corby Highland Gathering Announces 2026 Chieftain

Corby Highland Gathering is delighted to announce Gary Buchan as Chieftain for the 2026 event, which takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July at Charter Field, Corby Old Village.

Gary is National Chair of the SIMA Branch of Unite the Union. Originally founded as the Steel Industry Managers Association, SIMA represented staff, managerial and technical employees across the UK's steel industry. Following significant changes within the sector during the 1980s, SIMA became part of Amicus and later Unite the Union, where it continues to represent members working across the industry today.

The branch has four area sections covering the UK's major steelmaking regions: the East Midlands, Sheffield, Wales and the North. Today, SIMA represents around 2,300 members nationwide, supporting members in the workplace while also contributing to charitable and community initiatives.

SIMA has been a long-standing supporter and sponsor of Corby Highland Gathering, reflecting the close connection between Corby's steel industry and its Scottish heritage.

Corby's rapid growth during the twentieth century was driven by the expansion of the steelworks, attracting thousands of workers and their families from Scotland. They brought with them traditions, culture and community spirit that helped shape the town and continue to influence Corby's identity today.

As an organisation with deep roots in the steel industry, SIMA's ongoing support plays an important role in helping preserve and celebrate this shared heritage, making Gary's appointment as Chieftain particularly fitting in the Gathering's 55th year.

Gary Buchan said: "It is an honour and privilege for me to represent the SIMA National Branch of Unite the Union as this year's Chieftain at Corby Highland Gathering. The event celebrates a unique part of Corby's history and heritage, and I am proud to be part of it."

Mark Pengelly, Corby Highland Gathering Committee, said: "We're delighted to welcome Gary as our Chieftain for 2026. SIMA has been a valued supporter of the Gathering for many years, and the organisation's connection to the steel industry makes this a particularly meaningful appointment.

"The story of Corby cannot be told without recognising the contribution of the steelworkers and families who moved here from Scotland. Gary's appointment is a reminder of those links and the heritage that the Gathering continues to celebrate more than half a century after it first began."

Corby Highland Gathering returns to Charter Field on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July, bringing together pipe bands, Highland dancing, heavyweight competitions, live entertainment, family activities and much more in a celebration of the town's unique Scottish roots.