A FESTIVAL based around St Andrew’s Day and celebrating East Lothian’s status as the birthplace of Scotland’s flag returns to the county later this month.

Music, film, a market and a battlefield tour are just some of the events taking place during the Saltire Festival this year.

The annual festival, which has run in East Lothian since 2009, gets under way on November 24.

Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s spokesman for economic development and tourism, was looking forward to the festival, which ends on St Andrew’s Day (November 30).

He said: “The Saltire Festival has been a favourite fixture on East Lothian’s calendar for many years now and this year’s programme has another great mix of events to appeal to all tastes – with a strong Scottish and East Lothian theme.

“Tickets are selling fast so I’d advise being quick to avoid disappointment.

“I can’t wait to see the creative submissions coming in for our first Saltire social media competition too.

“It’s a great way to have a bit of fun and support local businesses by getting out and spending the East Lothian Gift Card prizes.

“Keep an eye on the website and Facebook page for any events that may be added to the programme in the next few weeks.”

A special screening of classic Scottish film Local Hero kicks off the festival at The Brunton.

The Musselburgh venue also hosts Scottish folk singer/songwriter Kris Drever on November 26, and Keith Jack and the McDonald Brothers perform songs from popular Scottish artists the following day.

A free exhibition in The Brunton foyer throughout the month tells the story of Dunbar-born conservationist John Muir’s love of the work of Robert Burns.

There is also a chance to tour the site of the Battle of Prestonpans on November 25 alongside battlefield historian Dr Arran Johnston, while a Saltire-themed farmers’ market takes place in Haddington on November 27.

To celebrate the Saltire Festival, a competition is running on Instagram and Twitter.

Entrants should take a photo of themselves at their favourite East Lothian landmark wearing something Scottish, post it on social media and tag East Lothian Council using #SaltireFest – the top three submissions will receive a £50 East Lothian Gift Card.

Entries are to be submitted by St Andrew’s Day, with the winners announced on December 6.

For more information, go to saltirefestival.com