The big population centres of central Scotland were always going to be important in boosting Gaelic as a living language.

That has now been underlined by the huge number of entries to the Royal National Mod, being held for the first time in Paisley.

There have been 3000 entries this year, which is almost as many as take part when the Mod is held in the always-popular venue of Oban. Organisers say this reflects Paisley's proximity to Glasgow, where there is a strong population of Gaelic speakers. Gaelic-medium education is expanding from a firm base in the city: the Glasgow Gaelic School, offering 3-18 Gaelic medium education, opened in 2006 and there are plans for another Gaelic primary in Pollokshields.

The Mod is not just for Gaelic speakers, however. This busy and vibrant celebration of Gaelic culture is a festival for all. Over the next eight days, it will fill Paisley with the sound of fiddle music and song, and the roar of shinty and football crowds. It promises to be unforgettable. For visitors to the town, wherever they are from, we say this: Fàilte gu Pàislig.