The historic Kirking of the Council ceremony in Inverness has been cancelled for the first time in more than 400 years due to coronavirus restrictions.
The ancient and colourful ceremony involves up to 200 people led by local pipe bands parading through the city centre.
However the annual spectacle is not able to go ahead next month due to social distancing requirements and to avoid any risk to public health.
The kirking ceremony is a partnership between the congregation of the Old High St Stephen’s Church of Scotland and the Inverness City Committee of The Highland Council when the Kirk blesses the work of councillors and officials and the council recognises the contribution of the Christian community to the city.
The occasion also gives the council the chance to recognise the valuable contributions of all faith groups, charitable agencies and voluntary organisations to the city.
Starting at Eastgate, the procession usually marches past Inverness Town House where councillors dressed in traditional red robes join at the rear, followed by the city Provost.
Councillor Helen Carmichael, Provost of the City of Inverness, said: “In consultation with the Old High Church It is with considerable sadness that we have agreed to not proceed with the Kirking of the Council this year. However, given the popularity of this historic event it may have proven very challenging to maintain appropriate social distancing during the procession and within the church.”
Christine Mackenzie, session clerk, at Old High St Stephen’s Church, said: “The congregation of the Old High Church is particularly disappointed at not being able to host the Kirking of the Council this year. The governments social distancing guidelines make it impractical and we recognise the importance of adhering to them.”
The ceremony has grown in recent years and has included increasing participation by children from primary and secondary schools, as well as youth and uniformed organisations across the city and participants from various faith groups. Mayors and dignitaries from the city’s twin towns in France and Germany have also joined in the event.
David Haas, city and area manager with Highland Council, added: “The council remains fully committed to the Kirking of the Council and recognises it as a valued and significant cultural event for the city. We have worked with the Old High Church over the years to develop it into the inclusive and colourful public civic event it has become and are grateful to them for their continued support.
“However, taking account of the risk to public health it is right to cancel it this year. We will, though, start planning in spring next year to ensure the Kirking of the Council goes ahead in September 2021 and resume its rightful place as the largest autumn event in the city.”