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Andrew Baird – aviation pioneer – son of Bute

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Commencing with the centenary of Baird's flight and annually on the weekend closest to 17 September, a Baird of Bute Festival celebration is held on Bute at the newly renamed Andrew Baird Airstrip, at Ettrick Bay and at the Mount Stuart Estate.Many small planes fly in to Baird airstrip then ceremonially over the beach at Ettrick Bay in front of hundreds of locals and visitors, many flying kites and all cheering in appreciation.There is a hot air balloon festival, kite flying and games for the whole family, a Baird Ceilidh at Mount Stuart and many other aviation related activities are featured, including the likes of a Royal Navy Sea King helicopter and aerobatics displays.