One of the biggest events on the Tayside tourism calendar has been added to the long list of Covid-19 cancellations with official confirmation July’s Glamis Extravaganza will not go ahead.
Organisers Strathmore Vintage Vehicle Club had delayed the almost inevitable decision as long as possible but have now made the announcement to enthusiasts across the UK and beyond.
It is only the second time in more than 45 years the Glamis Castle spectacle has been dropped.
Plans were already well advanced to welcome a summer influx the club had hoped might even beat 2019’s record-breaking entry of more than 1,800 vehicles.
The Scottish Transport Extravaganza traditionally attracts a five-figure crowd to the showfield in the grounds of the Earl of Strathmore’s family seat, the childhood home of the late Queen Mother.
SVVC chairman Allan Burt said: “The rate of spread of the Covid 19 virus continues unabated and Government lockdown measures and restrictions on movement and gatherings are being held in place for an indefinite period.
“Given these restrictions the trustees of the Club regret to announce that the Scottish Transport Extravaganza due to be held in the grounds of Glamis Castle on the July 11/12 has been cancelled. This is done in compliance with Government guidelines and in the interest of safety to participants and the general public.”
The club’s Bridge View House HQ near Glamis has also been shut since the restrictions came into place.
Mr Burt added: “The timescale for resumption of club activities in a normal manner is uncertain at this challenging time, however, the SVVC will endeavour to provide regular updates on the position and will be focusing on the advice issued by the Government and continue to be guided by that.”
Extravaganza entries opened in January and SVVC administrator Lesley Munro said vintage and classic car owners had been lining up to attend.
“From the time entries open it is crazy how quickly the numbers pile up, both individual entrants and car clubs, and we had 22 of those confirming attendance already.
“It is a real shame and only the second time in history we have had to cancel – the last being due to the foot and mouth crisis.
“Whatever has been thrown at us we have always tried to put on a great Extravaganza, but the situation we are now in is far bigger than our event.
“All we can do is look forward to 2021 and the date for that has been confirmed as July 10/11. We will be contacting entrants in due course and offering them to carry forward their entry until the, or receive a refund.”
