This year’s Landemer Day has fallen victim to coronavirus.
Organisers confirmed last week that the popular June gala event has been axed for the second consecutive year.
They cited the ongoing uncertainty from the pandemic and the inability to begin preparations as the main reasons behind the decision.
Ian Duncan of the Landemer Day organising committee said: “The organising committee of the Rutherglen Landemer Committee has decided that the proposed Landemer Day for 2021 will not take place.
“The committee unfortunately came to this decision due to the current situation with the coronavirus. We felt that we could not organise all the events, ceremonies, stalls, sports events, stage and street acts not knowing what the health situation will be in the country come June.
“We are extremely sorry to announce this, especially considering that last year’s Landemer celebrations suffered the same fate.”
Although current restrictions will have likely eased by the summer, mass gatherings could still be blocked, depending on the progress made against the virus.
The popular gala is one of the
highlights of the Rutherglen calendar, attracting thousands of visitors to the Main Street to watch the crowning of the Landemer Queen and to also enjoy an array of music, stalls and other entertainment.
As well as the gala day, the cancellation will also likely mean scrapping the annual primary school fun runs, the nursery and primary school art competitions and Landemer music in care homes.
Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey said she was disappointed but thinks that it was the right decision.
She told the Reformer : “It is disappointing news but I think it was probably expected by most.
“I believe it is the right move given the current public health restrictions and the understandable difficulties in organising the event.
“I am sure 2022’s Landemer Day will be the biggest and best yet, and I know the organising committee will be working tirelessly to make it a success.”
Landemer Day is not the first South Lanarkshire gala day affected.
Two weeks ago organisers of the Lanimer celebrations in Lanark postponed the event until September.
