Talented local curlers and world stars set to battle it out at Mercure City of Perth Masters

Laura Watt remembers the days of turning up at the Dewars Centre to watch some of the best teams in the world take to the ice.

Now the Auchterarder ace is again looking forward to competing in the prestigious Mercure City of Perth Masters herself.

Watt, a recently crowned Scottish Junior champion, joins forces with Robyn Munro, Amy Mitchell and Holly-Wilkie Milne - the latter from Perth - for a shot at home ice glory.

Eleven women’s teams from a plethora of countries will be vying for top honours at Dewars from January 4-7.

“I remember as a youngster coming in and getting to watch the Perth Masters,” Watt said. "It is great being able to play it now.

“It’s an event where we get to play the best teams in the world. It will also be a great event to prepare us for the second half of the season.

“We have the Scottish women’s and the world juniors coming up. It’s the perfect time for preparation.”

In the men’s draw, a strong field of 24 teams have their eye on the renowned trophy and among them will be Olympians and stars of the world game.

Defending champions Team Mouat, the Olympic silver medallists, arrive at the Dewars Centre determined to retain their title.

Skipped by Bruce Mouat, the team - ranked in the top five in the world - also includes Grant Hardie, Hammy McMillan and Bobby Lammie.

Lammie said: “I love the whole environment around the competition and the tradition behind it.

“You always turn up and know exactly what to expect - good ice, good hospitality and lots of good teams coming to play. It is one we always look forward to every year.

“A big goal of ours every season is to come to Perth, try to perform our best and retain that title again.”

Stiff competition will come from various angles, including from Team