HIGH WINDS HAVE wrecked plans for one of the most popular annual events in Moray with the cancellation of today’s Raft Race in Lossiemouth.
Organisers have decided to give up on the event in the face of increasing safety fears for participants and the thousands of guests expected to arrive on the banks of the River Lossie this afternoon.
After struggling to erect tents this morning, and in the face of increasingly high winds being predicted by the Met Office later today, it was decided to cancel the event.
However, the fun fair set up on the promenade will continue as will some food outlets and more solid stalls throughout today, while the planned road closures will also remain in place.
A disappointed local councillor John Cowe said: “It is a tragedy that the elements have conspired to force this cancellation but the safety of those taking part had to come first. Winds in the town are already high and that is expected to get worse throughout the day, so it was the only decision that could possibly be taken.
“This is such a shame for Lossiemouth as the Raft Race is one of our most popular annual events.”