The famous scene which closed the cult classic movie

The event was billed as one of the highlights of the Wigtown spring festival which runs until Monday.

Director Robin Hardy and actress Ingrid Pitt introduced a special screening of the film and the burning of a wicker man was also scheduled on Sunday.

Mr Hardy used the event to launch his follow-up book to the film entitled "Cowboys for Christ - On May Day".

The 1973 film, written by Anthony Shaffer, was shot at a number of locations throughout Galloway.

It is recognised as one of Britain's great cult movies and has spawned a music festival in its honour.

A wide range of other events are planned as part of the two-day spring festival.

Festival director Michael McCreath said he hoped the event would attract city visitors.

"The programme offers a huge variety of lectures, films, music and theatre and promises healthy intellectual stimulation amidst breathtaking scenery," he said.

The Scottish book town also stages a 10-day festival in September and October.