HIGHLAND games chiefs are calling for women to be given the chance to toss the caber alongside men.

The test of strength, in which competitors hurl 20-foot wooden poles, has been dominated by men since the inception of the Highland games. But now the Scottish Highland Games Association wants to see women compete in the trademark event of the competition.

Females will have to throw the same cabers, which weigh up to 100lb, as men.

Association president Charlie Murray said: "There has been some interest, more so overseas, and a league is to be set up this summer for female athletes who want to take part in the Highland games.

"We can't be seen to be discriminatory against anybody — the only rule is the women must throw the same implement as the male competitors, whether it's the caber, a hammer or a stone."

Heavy events at Highland games in the US are attracting an increasing number of women, but they often throw a smaller caber.