BBC ALBA’s New Year céilidh is to be filmed at Cnoc Soillier in Daliburgh, South Uist, it has been revealed.

Venue operator Ceòlas has hailed hosting the céilidh as “great news”.

The news was confirmed at the Royal National Mòd in Glasgow, where MG ALBA was unveiling its Vision 2030 plans.

MG ALBA’s new Director of Content and Audiences, Tony Kearney, confirmed that BBC ALBA’s big céilidh will be heading to South Uist.

Mr Kearney said this is a great opportunity to bring the programme to the “heart of our community” and to utilise the “state-of-the-art facilities” in Daliburgh.

He said producing the programme in South Uist would also provide local employment.

Cnoc Soilleir chairman, Alex O’Henley welcomed the news that this year’s Cèilidh na Bliadhn’ Ùire/Hogmanay Live on BBC Alba will be broadcast from Cnoc Soilleir: “Everyone at Cnoc Soilleir is delighted with the news that this year’s Cèilidh na Bliadhn’ Ùire/Hogmanay Live will come from Daliburgh, South Uist. 

“Since the completion of the second phase of the building this has been a key target and I am thrilled that the biggest party in Scotland this Hogmanay will be coming from Cnoc Soilleir showcasing our amazing facilities and talented local musicians to a Scottish and world wide audience. 

“What a fantastic way to round off a momentous year for Cnoc Soilleir and our partners, Ceòlas Uibhist and UHI NWH. I would like to take this opportunity to thank MG Alba and BBC Alba for embracing our ambition so enthusiastically and look forward to a real hòro-gheallaidh at Cnoc Soilleir on Hogmanay.”

There was more good news for the southern islands, with MG ALBA saying they will be funding Ceòlas’ plans to establish a media centre in the islands.