Comrie’s famous Flambeaux Parade has been cancelled.
Hamish Reid, chairman of Comrie Flambeaux Committee, made the announcement on Wednesday, September 16.
The annual Hogmanay event attracts thousands to witness the spectacle which sees flaming torches paraded to the four corners of the village in time for midnight as part of a ritual to ward off evil spirits.
Led by Comrie Pipe Band and followed by a fancy dress parade, the flambeaux create a striking sight as they are held aloft to make the tour of the village.
Earlier in the evening, local children enjoy their own fancy dress parade in the White Church and there is a family fireworks display on the Boulevard but these have been cancelled as well.
It is not known when the Flambeaux tradition began but only the First and Second World Wars have halted proceedings in the past.
Mr Reid said the committee had decided to make the announcement early as the community website has been getting enquiries from those from further afield wishing to book accommodation for the event.
He told the Strathearn Herald: “Due to the effects of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak there will be no Flambeaux event to bring in the New Year of 2021 in Comrie.
“Similarly, the Junior Parade and fireworks display will not take place on Hogmanay.
“Apart from the war years it is unknown for this age-old Comrie tradition not to have taken place but these are exceptional circumstances and we look to the future when we can again bring in the New Year in true Comrie tradition.”
Mr Reid added that even organising a scaled-down event, or symbolic gesture with only one flambeau, could not be considered by the committee.
He added: “We can’t even do a smaller event as the last thing we want to do is be encouraging people into the village.”
The Flambeaux Parade is mainly funded by a door-to-door collection which, in the interest of keeping villagers safe, will also not be taking place this year.
