Today in front of a record crowd, Iain Chalmers won Carve Carrbridge with his wonderful 'Bear Necessities' carving of a group of four bears. Beating a strong local and international line up, Iain from Culbokie in the Black Isle said it was “unbelievable to win against the strongest field yet at Carve Carrbridge. I felt like the local boy against the best in the world”.

Iain Chalmers with 2010 winning 'Bear Necessities'

According to Ian, the carving was a last minute decision. `I love carving bears so thought I would do something that I love doing. When I carve bears I normally do vertical groups but for a change today I decided to try a horizontal composition. I did not think I would win but I thought it would be popular.”

Iain has been carving for eight years. Before that he was working with chain saws and one day saw someone carving with a chainsaw and decided to give it a try.

This is the the sixth time Ian has competed in Carve Carrbridge, previously achieving a third and a fourth placing. Following his win he has vowed to return next year to defend his title.

Iain works as a professional carver and does private commissions. He can be contacted via his web site www.chainsawcreations.co.uk

Bob King 2nd with 'A Hare Raising Experience'

Bob King the 2009 winner came second with his 'A Hare Raising Experience' a dynamic carving of an eagle swooping down on a hare. Commenting on the event Bob said “the crowds today were spectacular with their support, and that drives us to work even harder in the competition. The wood provided was beautiful to work with, and the carvers are a great bunch of guys and gals. Another successful year for Carve Carrbridge.”

Full Results

1st Ian Chalmers (Scotland) with 'Bear Necessities'.
2nd Bob King (USA) with 'A Hare Raising Experience'.
3rd Brett McLean with 'Balanced Pride'.
Peoples choice Bob King.
Top quick carve by auction value: Danny Thomas.

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