Plug is pulled on Shieldaig regatta as organisers make 'tough but somewhat inevitable decision' amid coronavirus uncertainty
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AN eagerly anticipated Wester Ross fete and regatta has fallen victim to the coronavirus crisis.
Shieldaig's annual fete and coastal rowing regatta is traditionally staged on the first Saturday of August and features a variety of events, stalls, races, food and music spread over the weekend and culminating in an open air street ceilidh.
Its regatta, set against a beautiful backdrop, has become an increasingly popular attraction for the growing coastal rowing scene across Ross-shire.
Organisers this weekend confirmed the "tough but somewhat inevitable decision" to cancel this year's event had been taken.
Despite the gradual easing of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions and the July 15 pencilled in opening date of the tourist season, a major question mark still hangs over when larger gatherings will be sanctioned.
Organisers said: "We are very much looking forward to welcoming visitors from (we hope) July 15 but mass gatherings are unlikely to be allowed by early August.
"It’s such a shame, but we hope to see some of you here this year anyway. Many of our local businesses are busy making plans so we can be ready for you. If you have booked or want to book holiday accommodation for 2021, the fete and regatta is scheduled to be held on Saturday, August 7, 2021."
It joins a long list of coronavirus casualties which also include events ranging from the Black Isle Show to the Belladrum musical festival, both also traditionally staged in August.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has set down July 15 as a tentative opening date for the tourist season under new guidelines aimed at allowing the gradual opening up of the economy while taking measures to avoid a second spike in the virus.
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