Glamis Castle’s manager has resigned from his post at the iconic venue.
But fears of a leadership crisis have been rejected after Tommy Baxter, who was appointed to lead the castle in 2015, left his post on the advice of his medical advisers amid personal health fears.
No official statement has been issued, but the castle has confirmed Mr Baxter is no longer employed at the castle, which is the family seat of the earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne and attracts up to 100,000 visitors annually.
Estate Factor Willy Inglis said: “Mr Baxter tendered his resignation on Monday for personal reasons, and confirmed his decision on Tuesday in writing, but I understand he had been considering it for some time.”
The news comes days after the future of Glamis Prom, one of the castle’s biggest annual events, was put in doubt when its operator announced this year’s show will be the last.
Mr Inglis rebuffed claims the manager’s departure had left a crisis at the castle, highlighting its “very capable team” and said the remaining staff would “step up” in the meantime.
He added: “There are exciting things going on at the moment, and the events that are in the pipeline here are secure, and very much on-course.
“At the moment, we will reflect on the situation, and establish the best way of going forward.
“The job needs someone very capable to do it, but on the other hand, it is a new opportunity for someone to work with Lord Strathmore, but there is no question that Tommy will be a difficult act to follow.”
Mr Baxter’s association with the castle began as an enthusiastic tour guide in the 1970s.
He moved to London to pursue a career as a stage impresario before returning to Angus to take up general manager’s role.
Mr Baxter said: “Regrettably, I have made the difficult decision to resign for personal health reasons, and on the advice of my doctors.
“I will however, always continue to support everything that goes on at Glamis.”
The leader of Angus Council, David Fairweather expressed regret at Mr Baxter’s departure.
He said: “I am very sorry to hear that Mr Baxter has resigned from his role at the castle, and I would like to wish him all the best for the future.
“Glamis Castle is a hugely important part, not only of the heritage of Angus, but of the local economy too.
“The castle is immensely significant, and, for example, it has played a key role in building the relationship between Angus and China, and more recently Mr Baxter was extremely helpful when the Consul General of Japan visited the county.
“I am confident that the leadership team at the castle will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition.”
