Licensee calls time on Bennachie Lodge
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Hundreds of locals have expressed their sadness after Sandy Elrick, licensee of the Bennachie Lodge in Kemnay announced that he was set to give up the business.
The popular venue in the village has been the focus for many events, with weekend live music, family fun days and even the World Championship Neep Bowling competition having been hosted there.
In recent weeks, Mr Elrick had planned to host a Halloween event for the community and despite best efforts to comply with current restrictions Aberdeenshire Council and Police Scotland deemed it was a gathering and could not take place.
In a statement posted on social media Mr Elrick said: "It is with great regret that I will be giving the Bennachie Lodge up on February 8.
"After today's enforced decision by the Licencing Standards Officers and Aberdeen Council forcing me to cancel the Family Halloween Attraction it is obvious that they are not going to allow me to do anything going forward.
"I would like to thank every single person who has supported us this last four years.
"We have had some great days and nights here at the Bennachie Lodge and to have helped raise over £100,000 for local charities.
"I will take away so many fabulous memories and many new friends from our time at the Lodge.
"I would like to say a massive thank-you to Ken, Nicola and Ian (the gardener) for giving me the chance to run the lodge and the help and support they have shown me over the years
"Thank you.
"Hopefully I will get the chance to say goodbye to most of you before I leave but, I wish the Lodge continued success and hope it goes on to bigger and better things."