East Neuk residents ‘concerned’ about influx of visitors, says local tourism boss

Roger Brown, chairman of Visit East Neuk, highlighted that some businesses in the area are not adhering to the Scottish government’s rules on social distancing, and said residents are concerned about an increased risk of catching the virus.

The last few weeks has seen increasing numbers of tourists visiting the area’s picturesque villages, after the lockdown eased and weather improved.

And Mr Brown warned that businesses have to follow the guidelines – or risk a rise in cases such as Aberdeen.

He added: “Residents are concerned about the influx of visitors across the area.

“There’s concern more visitors increases the risk of Covid being spread in the area.”

The next couple of months will be crucial to businesses in the area, ahead of the quiet winter months.

“What what I’ve heard, the traders are delighted to be operating again,” Mr Brown said.

“One of the key things will be getting through the winter months. There is a concern when there is much less trading. You have to make your money during the peak months to see you through the lean months.”

With some government schemes, such as the furlough funding, coming to an end soon, businesses could also lose out on valuable support ahead of the quiet winter months.

Mr Brown said domestic tourism will be ‘vital’, as more and more Scots look to have staycations, rather than go abroad and risk being caught out should the government guidelines change. However, he said a drop in international tourists visiting St Andrews, who might also tour the Neuk, could have a knock on effect.