Grantown Hogmanay success celebrated but warning for future
One of the biggest Hogmanay parties in the whole of the Highlands was back and celebrated in great style after the enforced Covid-19 absence.
Around 2200 revellers are estimated to have gathered at The Square in Grantown to see in 2023.
Regular visitors Shetland-based Maggie Adamson and Friends performed the music for the ceilidh while Speysound Radio made its first appearance at the well-loved Hogmanay in The Square.
Beverley Cartwright was at the helm of the organising committee for the first time – and said she had thoroughly enjoyed what was her first-ever Hogmanay bash despite moving to the town in 2019.
She told the Strathy: “There was a great atmosphere on the street and people came out early.
“It was the first ever Hogmanay I had been to in Grantown – even though I was organising it – because of the pandemic.
“We had some very good feedback on the fireworks display and it was wonderful to have Speysound Radio here for the first time which added a really nice feel to the occasion, along with the piper.”
Ms Cartwright continued: “After a couple of years of not having the event because of Covid I think that people were really keen to have a good party."
She paid tribute to the team of volunteers who aided organisers – the Grantown Initiative – but said that more help will be required on the big night in the future.
Ms Cartwright is appealing for others to get on-board with the community event: “A huge thanks to all those who supported the event but we really do need more people to assist. These things can not happen without people giving their time on the night including marshals.”
Organisers thanks all those who contributed in any way to making the return of Hogmanay in The Square such a success.
