SIR Billy Connolly said hearing bagpipes along sixth avenue in New York City made him “dance a wee jig in my heart”.

The well-known comedian, actor and musician lead the New York City Tartan Day Parade today, despite announcing his retirement from touring in December.

Performing the role of Grand Master in front of 30,000 spectators in Manhattan, Sir Billy said: “I’ve absolutely loved being Grand Marshal of this year’s New York City Tartan Day Parade.

“The crowds were brilliant and hearing the skirl of the pipes echoing along Sixth Avenue made me dance a wee jig in my heart.  What a day.”

The 21st anniversary of Tartan Day procession included, solo pipers, drummers, highland dancers and Scottish clans and full pipe bands.

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The well-loved ‘parade pups’ made their annual appearance and were judged by psychologist Dr Pamela Stephenson, who is married to Sir Billy.

Five groups of Celtic canines melted spectators hearts this year; Scotties, Westies, Dandie Dinmonts, Golden Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs.

The Tartan Day Parade is the highlight of a week of celebrations, commonly known as New York City Tartan Week.

The week is jam packed with special events, including traditional Scottish dance workshops, kilt fittings, band performances and ceilidhs popping up in venues such as Bryant Park, The Tailor Pub and Carnegie Hall.