World Porridge Championship main contest in Carrbridge cancelled for 2020 due to Covid-19
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The last of the strath's big events of 2020 has had to admit to defeat to coronavirus but organisers of the World Porridge Championship still hope to stir some interest in the contest.
They will be holding a slimmed down virtual event in its usual place in Carrbridge this October.
Organisers have just announced that the champs – which attracts competitors from across the globe – have been called off.
The 27th outing had been due to take place in the village on October 10.
Organisers stated on social media: "Well folks, I’m sorry to say that the virus constraints have beaten us. Our first and foremost concern is the safety of everyone involved but the rules around movement, social distancing, crowds and quarantine make it impossible for us to have a normal competition this year.
"But all is not lost...
"In order to keep things going we are having a speciality online competition where the best entrants will be dubbed “Virtual Spurtler 2020”. Our long time sponsors, Hamlyns, will be supporting the event and will present Perfect Porridge Packs to the best entrants. Have a look at our website for all the details.
"With all the schools being closed and likely to remain so for some time, the Silver Spurtle (junior championship) has been cancelled in its entirety. It’s a real shame but junior porridge-makers can enter the Virtual Spurtle if they wish.
"It won't be the same but it’s a bit of fun.
"We will post the best entrants on our website and Facebook on World Porridge Day (10th October)."
Lisa Williams, who runs a social enterprise and a community cafe for adults with learning disabilities in Trimley St Mary in Suffolk, was crowned World Porridge Making Champion last year while Nick Bernard’s maple pecan porridge earned him his second speciality title.
The championships were another triumph for Carrbridge Community Council which has long enjoyed the sponsorship of Hamlyns of Scotland, the Banffshire-based producer of their own Scottish Oatmeal and Scottish Porridge Oats.
Last year’s contest attracted competitors from 11 different countries including Sweden, Canada, Germany, France, Poland and from across the UK.
