Credit crunch hits Highland Games

The Highland Games were due to go ahead on Sunday 12 July

Stirling's annual Highland Games, due to take place in July, has been cancelled as the recession bites.

Stirling Tourism Association blamed the decision on "economic uncertainties created by the credit crunch" and successive changes of venue.

Local MSP Bruce Crawford said he was due to meet with the games' committee with a view to ensuring the cancellation was a one-off.

The popular annual event was due to take place at Kings Park on 12 July.

Each year the games attract thousands of visitors to the city, including hundreds of performers taking part in piping and traditional dancing competitions.

'Key element'

A notice on the committee's website read: "Regrettably, due to economic uncertainties created by the credit crunch and successive changes of venue, the committee of Stirling Tourism Association have decided to cancel the Stirling Highland Games due to be held on 12 July 2009.

"We look forward to welcoming our friends and visitors to next year's games due to be held on 11 July."

Mr Crawford, who attended last year's event, said: "I will meet with representatives of the Stirling Tourism Association next week with a view to ensuring the return of the Games for future years.

"This event is a key element in the successful tourism package Stirling offers.

"Tourism plays a vital part in the local economy of the Stirling area, and I am determined that despite the recession, Stirling must send out the message that it remains open for business and is a must-visit destination for visitors from across the world."