The spectacular Stonehaven fireballs ceremony will go ahead as planned this Hogmanay, it has been announced.
Fears had been raised that the event which draws thousands of visitors to the Mearns town each year was under threat due to a lack of volunteers.
Grampian Police have now confirmed the celebration will take place as planned, with some changes to spectator arrangements. In previous years there has been overcrowding in the Old and Net pier areas.
A spokesman for Grampian Police said: ”Anyone wishing to view the lighting and dowsing of the Fireballs, as well as the Fireworks display, from the Old Pier and Net Pier areas can only gain access to this area via the Boardwalk, which will take spectators through the ‘backies’ and into this area.
”The access lanes at Keith Place and Janes Interiors will be closed. If you choose to enter this area there will be no subsequent access through to the High Street or Shorehead.
”Anyone wishing to view the actual Fireball swinging itself must access High Street via the points on New Street, Dunnottar Avenue at the Sheriff Court House or Arbuthnott Place.”
Police have asked anyone attending to comply with directions given by officers and marshals.
Fireball committee chairwoman Susan Leiper said: ”After the recent press coverage many people have come forward to help the fireball ceremony.
”Numbers are building nicely and most of them have expressed their desire to see this historic ceremony continue and are determined to assist us in this, which makes all the hard work worthwhile.
”It’s really touching to hear how much people love this unique event. I can’t thank those who have come forward enough and I realise it’s a lot to ask of people at Hogmanay.”
Around 45 participants parade a 175 yard stretch of the High Street, from the Mercat Cross to the Cannon, swinging fireballs over their heads.
Processions with flaming torches and kindling of fires on certain days of the year can be traced back to the middle ages all over Europe.
Some claim the spectacle began as a ”sun-charm” ceremony, with the fireballs used to mimic the sun’s supply of energy.
Others maintain that ceremonial fires were designed to destroy or purify all harmful influences, such as witches, demons and monsters, or even the corruption of the air.
The earliest documented proof of the existence of the fireballs was recorded in 1908 however, it is understood it was already an established local custom at that time.
To offer to volunteer at the ceremony, email Kevin Boyne at kerry.bongo@btinternet.com, or call 01569 765431. Alternatively call Susan Leiper on 07800 774965.