Circus on its way

The Moscow State Circus will soon bring its new production Gostinitsa to Scotland.

The group will perform in Elgin on Lossie Green from Thursday July 5 to Tuesday July 10, and in Inverness at Caledonian Thistle FC stadium from Thursday July 12 to Tuesday July 17.

The circus will then arrive at Aberdeen’s Queens Links at the beach from Thursday July 19 to Sunday August 5. The north-east inn that enjoyed a starring role in the beloved 1983 film Local Hero will stay open thanks to phenomenal customer support.

Pennan Inn, near Fraserburgh, and its distinctive telephone box were made famous after appearing in Burt Lancaster’s Scottish comedy-drama.

It was feared that the rural pub and restaurant would disappear in August as a result of financial difficulties linked to the oil downturn and new drinkdriving laws.

Landlord Peter Simpson has, however, come up with a plan to maximise the business’s earning potential and keep the hotel running for the near future.

He says the backing of locals and regular customers has given him the heart to come up with a solution and to keep going.

The inn’s restaurant will be reconfigured with slightly smaller layout, capable of seating up to 20 diners.

Once refurbishments a r e c o m p l e t e , f i v e rooms should be available to let.

Mr Simpson said: “Ever since I announced I was closing, a lot of customers have been upset and disappointed.

“They’ve supported me a lot and I have had good feedback.

“I want to keep going and I’m changing the business so I can make it work better.

“I’ve basically changed the focus of the business to accommodation and a restaurant with reduced hours.

“Hopefully this will work as the customers have been great.”

Pennan Inn will be open for food in the evenings and at weekends.