Coronavirus claims Buckie Christmas Kracker again
Easier access to your trusted, local news. Subscribe to a digital package and support local news publishing.
HOPES that Buckie Christmas Kracker (BCK) would survive the pandemic restrictions have been dashed.
In a statement on the group's Facebook page, the volunteer team behind the event, which draws crowds from far and wide, reluctantly conceded defeat.
"...due to the current guidelines we are still living with, the Kracker team have decided there will be no Kracker again this year (we need most of the year to plan this one event).
"We know you will be disappointed – we are too.
"However, providing guidance allows we will put on a much smaller evening event to switch on our lovely Christmas lights display.
"Please keep an eye on the [Facebook] page where we will keep you updated."
The switching on of the town's Christmas lights usually marks the grand finale of a fun-filled day out for all the family based around the centre of Buckie.
As with many key events in the local calendar, this will be the second year that Covid has claimed the Kracker,