The biggest Hogmanay bash in the north-east owes thousands of pounds to the musicians, bands and firms which made it a success.
The organisers of Stonehaven’s Open Air in the Square have claimed “outstanding financial and administration issues” are to blame for not paying performers from as far back as 2014.
The concert in the heart of the Mearns village attracted Deacon Blue last New Year, but still owes money to several bands, two production companies and a security firm.
The event – which attracts thousands of revellers every year – will not be going ahead this winter.
Security firm G4S is among the firms still awaiting payment, having provided guards for the event.
The company is believed to be owed thousands of pounds and is on the brink of taking legal action against the organisers.
SM Lighting have also claimed they are owed £9,000 for its part in the 2014 celebrations.
Director of the company, Scott Munro, said: “We have tried several times to contact the organisers about payment of the money, which is due to us for our services, however they have failed to get back to us.”
Open Air in the Square has been running since 2013 and attracted big-name bands including The Human League and Simple Minds.
However, it’s the smaller acts who are believed to be awaiting payment, among them The Supernaturals – who say they are owed about £2,000 following last year’s performance.
Band singer, James McColl, added: “We sent an invoice, then we tried contacting them via Facebook and the Open Air in the Square website, but no one has acknowledged us at all.”
Lorraine McCauley, of Lorraine and The Borderlands, revealed the band are due thousands from their 2015 gig, whilst Skye group The Peatbog Faeries also say they are owed further instalments of money.
Blackbox Pro Audio, production suppliers for the event, have similarly revealed they are chasing payment for services.
Trustee and secretary of Open Air in the Square, Lynn Callaghan, said she still hoped a “spectacular” Hogmany event can be held in 2017.
She added: “Unforeseen costs contributed to losses being incurred, despite the success and popularity of the event.
“There have been delays in paying some suppliers while certain outstanding administrative and financial issues were dealt with.
“These matters have now reached a satisfactory conclusion and this will ensure suppliers will be paid in coming weeks.
“The committee apologises for any inconvenience caused by these delays.”
