HOLLYWOOD heartthrob Dougray Scott is to open Markinch Highland Games.

Organisers have pulled-off a major coup by getting the film star to be the honorary chieftain for the summer event.

The presence of the actor is certain to send the attendance at the games soaring. And the temperatures of his legions of female fans will no doubt follow as he sports the kilt.

It is hoped that Dougray will present special medals to younger children at the games, which fall on the weekend of the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

The former Auchmuty High School pupil, whose real first name is Stephen, grew up in the Woodside area of Glenrothes before embarking on a career where he first came to prominence in the television series 'Soldier, Soldier'. Since then, he has attained stardom with big screen appearances in blockbusters like 'Mission Impossible II' and 'Enigma' and is currently on location shooting his latest movie 'Cromwell and Fairfax'.

Games spokesman, Shane Fenton, who has known the star for a long time, said: ''Dougray is delighted to be given the honour at an event he attended as a youngster with his mother.

''Getting him to take time out of his very busy schedule to be with us on June 2 is a major coup for us and we are delighted and privileged.''

As chieftain, the star's other duties will include delivering the games address to the thousands of people who will be attending the John Dixon Park event and taking the ceremonial march past and salute from the massed pipe bands.

©2001 Johnston Press New Media