Dumfriesshire’s main summer festivities have been cancelled for a second year because of the pandemic.
Lockerbie, Lochmaben, Moffat and Annan residents will again be looking to mark their Riding of the Marches and Gala Days with cyber events or in their own homes.
It follows the cancellation of Dumfries Guid Nychburris, Moffat Car Rally, and Dumfries Tattoo – with other events expected to follow suit.
The events’ committees have posted statements on social media this week citing that the “regrettable” decisions are down to the ongoing Covid-19 situation and the likelihood of major restrictions remaining
in place for the foreseeable future.
Lockerbie ROM committee said: “We have left this decision for as long as we practically could to see how things developed but we hope you all understand that it has not been taken lightly and that it is a decision taken first and foremost with the health and well-being of all our townspeople, friends and supporters in mind.
“Whilst this is bitterly disappointing for everyone involved, hopefully the vaccine roll-out will help us all get over this pandemic and allow us some sense of ‘normal’ sooner rather than later.”
Last year’s cancellation did not deter the town from marking its June big day.
Respecting social distancing, residents had garden parties and decorated their streets, homes and outdoor spaces.
