Glamis Castle has enjoyed an unexpected boost thanks to Iceland’s volcanic ash cloud.
As one of Angus’ top landmarks announced a new manager, it revealed that a promising start to the season was bettered by the air travel ban.
Mary Shields arrived with experience from a 20-year career in festival and event management and as a consultant to arts centres and visitor destinations. Most recently she was artistic adviser to Homecoming Scotland 2009 and is looking forward to the challenge of developing the Angus attraction.
She said, “Glamis Castle is a unique, five-star visitor attraction in one of Scotland’s most beautiful and welcoming regions.
“It is a very successful business with enormous potential and a team eager to, and capable of, delivering an exciting, expanded programme.”
She added, “It is an enormous pleasure to be here and to be looking forward to a fantastic season.”
Forecast bookings are healthy and a potential economic fallout from the eruption has been avoided.
Libby Reynolds, from the marketing team, said, “We had a few private dinners and events scheduled by international customers which were affected by the volcanic ash situation, but thankfully they have have been re-booked, which is very good news for Glamis.”
The Earl of Strathmore’s family home also had a few extra visitors after those stranded after Glasgow’s Expo 2010 were given a free visit.
Libby added, “International buyers who may not have planned to come to Glamis during their time in Scotland were able to do that and hopefully we will gain some benefit from that.”