Credit crunch hits Highland Games

The recession has bitten again, this time causing Stirling's annual Highland Games to be cancelled. Organisers blamed "economic uncertainties created by the credit crunch" and successive changes of venue. This popular annual event was due to take place at Kings Park on 12 July.

Each year the games attract thousands of visitors to the city, including hundreds of performers taking part in piping and traditional dancing competitions.

A notice on the committee's website read: "Regrettably, due to economic uncertainties created by the credit crunch and successive changes of venue, the committee of Stirling Tourism Association have decided to cancel the Stirling Highland Games due to be held on 12 July 2009.

"We look forward to welcoming our friends and visitors to next year's games due to be held on 11 July."