Nasa, we have a problem… where to sleep

A HIGHLAND village is struggling to accommodate top scientists who are meeting there for a Nasa party next month.

Glenelg in Invernesshire is to welcome several hundred space experts as they celebrate the latest mission of Mars explorer robot Curiosity. The robot is on its way to a valley, also called “Glenelg”, and, to mark the occasion, Nasa have decided to throw a ceilidh with Highland residents.

But the locals are concerned that there will be nowhere for the officials to stay. There is only one inn and a limited number of chalets and holiday lets in the 
remote settlement, with the nearest hotel 15 miles away.

John Maclean, chairman of the Glenelg and Arnisdale Development Trust, said: “Nasa got in touch and suggested a party in Glenelg and asked for our help.

“Now they are talking about doing a big event on 20 October – it’s gaining momentum, but accommodation could be a problem. It would be helpful if people planning to attend could give us advance warning.”