Snowman buzz as Dingwall set to rally to iconic event
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There has been a “buzz” in Dingwall this week as residents await the arrival of the Snowman Rally.
The market town was the beneficiary after a change of dates meant that Inverness High Street was unavailable for the Saturday afternoon regroup.
Sensing an opportunity, local Councillor Graham Mackenzie pounced on the chance for the town to host a timed stage of the rally.
As many as 95 rally cars will pass through Dingwall on Saturday – up from the more than 60 predicted – for the ceremonial High Street regroup.
Spectators will be able to see them up close safely before they are waved off back into the race.
Race officials are also delighted that local MSP and the newly promoted finance minister Kate Forbes is due to attend.
Cllr Mackenzie said he was delighted with how the preparations have been going and is looking forward to the big day.
He said: “After talking to the organisers at the weekend there’s been a big jump in the number of cars coming. They are now expecting around 95 which is up from the 60-odd vehicles that they were expecting.
“A lot of people have been talking about it. Some people are saying they will go up to Rogie Falls for the stage and other people said they would be on the High Street to see the cars close-up. Some people are trying to do both.
“And Kate Forbes is going which is great, she will be waving them off so now all we need is for a bit of good weather.”
Senior High Street stage official Gavin Kelt said he hoped the rally coming to Dingwall would be a success.
“Speaking as someone from the town, I would expect Dingwall to be buzzing this week before the rally arrives. It is just a nice event, a wee bit out of the norm and all the better for that.
“It will be great for the rally to be in Dingwall and I hope it will be great for Dingwall to have the rally come and visit and of course Kate Forbes will be sending the cars off – so that is an added bonus.”
Miss Forbes said: “I know in previous years the Snowman Rally has passed by the Mart, so I’m absolutely delighted that the cars will be coming down the High Street on Saturday.
“This will undoubtedly bring many visitors to Dingwall, and I hope the day is a huge success for the town. I’m looking forward to it. As long as we take good care passing my constituency office I’ll be fine.”
The cars are expected to rally on Dingwall High Street around 12.30pm on Saturday.
