IT'S a dilemma seldom faced by Scotland's sporting stars.

But one shinty player has been forced to choose between his love of the game and his art after his team made the semi-final of today's Camanachd Cup.

Gary Innes was hoping to help Fort William secure a place in his ninth cup final, but will miss the match against Newtonmore to perform on stage in front of 17,000 music fans.

Mr Innes, an accordionist, will appear along with his band Manran as a support act at the 40th-anniversary celebrations of the rock band Runrig at a concert in the Black Isle.

"It was a really, really tough decision to make and one I'd rather not have had to experience," said Mr Innes.

"Some people never get a chance to play in these big games. There would be no way I could play then get to the concert.

"I don't think it is fair on others to play part of a half and leave so I've had to say I can't do it.

"However, I'll be looking at Facebook and Twitter to see what is happening and hoping the boys can do it."