by Andy Hyslop The Aviemore Mountain Film Festival which closed last Sunday has been proclaimed by its organisers as their best yet. 1,500 visitors took part in the 4 day festival of extreme mountain films from around the world and activities in the surrounding area. The festival organiser Dave Felce said: “The success of this year´s festival has been truly mind-blowing. We continue to grow every year, so it just goes to show that you don´t have to plough mega-bucks into a festival to ensure its success. We´re proud that we deliver a first class event on zero budget, and I´d personally like to thank everyone involved over the four days, and throughout the months of preparation, for all their hard work.” Innovative plans are already underway for next year. “As organisers, we´re not scared to think outside the box and go for something different whether it´s music, films or guest speakers. The 2007 festival has paved the way for an even bigger and better event next year. You can be sure that the line-up in 2008 will be even bigger. My dream is to have a big mountaineering name share the stage with a big rock act.” ( Source: Strathspey & Badenoch Herald )