Ambitious proposals by an Arbroath fitness instructor to hold a family-friendly New Year party in the town have been shut down.
The plan, by former Commonwealth Games boxer George Ferrie, would have seen performances by local bands, a vocalist bringing in the new year, and a DJ.
It was hoped charging a £10 entry fee for adults would have covered the costs of the event, including security, toilets and entertainments.
Organisers hoped local cafes and bars would remain open, with additional catering provided by burger vans.
Some local councillors had given their backing to the event, but organisers failed to reach agreement with the community council, which had ultimately declined to assist.
A statement issued by the community council stated they could not commit to helping individual event organisers without discussions and voting by members.
The statement also highlighted elections take place next month and there is no guarantee there will even be a community council after October.
The short timeframe also left the group unable to provide assistance, especially as it would potentially see a number of new people joining who will not meet for the first time until November.
Arbroath West and Letham Councillor David Fairweather, who has been involved in the project from the start, said: “Mr Ferrie’s idea for a family Hogmanay event at the steeple was a superb one as far as I’m concerned, and it was certainly well received.
“Although initial discussions with the community council had been positive, they were unable to get involved for a number of reasons, and this meant that costs for things such as insurance increased quite dramatically.
“The knock-on effect of this meant that the number of tickets that had to be sold to cover expenses might have exceeded the available space.
“Under the circumstances, I think cancelling the plans for this year is the right decision, but there is still a huge amount of enthusiasm for an event of this kind, and I hope that it will take place next year instead.”
Mr Ferrie said: “Obviously it is very disappointing that we have had to cancel the event, but I can’t thank the people of Arbroath enough for their support and enthusiasm.
“By cancelling now, rather than closer to the time, it means the bands and security staff, for example, can find other work.
“Any profits that would have been made were earmarked for charity, but there is still next year, and plans are already under way.”
