'If Nessie can avoid social contact for 15 centuries, we can manage a few weeks' - Highland attraction closes doors

The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition has followed in the footsteps of its most famous resident and moved into temporary self-isolation.

The Loch Ness Centre said it is following in the footsteps of its most famous resident, Nessie.

The Highland attraction has closed to the public in compliance with government advice on social distancing to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

With the exception of Christmas Day, this is the first time the venue has shut its doors since its launch 40 years ago.

Co-owner David Bremner urged the public to help in the protection of rural communities. He said: “If Nessie can avoid social contact for 15 centuries, I am sure we can manage a few weeks.

The Drumnadrochit Hotel and Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition are protecting the public and the local community.

“We didn’t notice a significant downturn in footfall before last week, largely because Scotland didn’t even have its first confirmed coronavirus case until the first week of March.

“Furthermore, some people were mistakenly viewing national parks as safe havens for self-isolation. Rural communities need to protect themselves as much as their urban counterparts and we must all follow Government guidelines to reduce our contacts and stay home wherever possible.”

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