In the past few months, and as the opportunity has arisen, I have questioned kiltmakers and sporran makers in Scotland about this - just to get the current 'take' on the subject.

The general consensus is that straps are, indeed, much more practical but chains are fast becoming a fashion accessory. This is apparently attributed to the fact that chains show up better in the photography used in catalogues and websites!

This, to a certain extent, is an indication of the way in which traditional methods can evolve, for whatever reason. 50-odd years ago, when I came to kilt wearing, sporran straps were the norm for day wear, whilst chains were reserved for full evening dress outfits.

I currently have a new day sporran on order. When I placed the order, I asked about having a strap and was told that one could be provided in place of the chain-strap if that was what I wanted. It did not appear to be an unusual request.

Regardless of what might be fashionable, I have too much respect for my kilts to wear chains on my day-wear sporrans.