Moffat has struck gold with the news that the 2017 World Gold Panning Championships are to be held in the town.
The British Gold Panning Association has won the rights to hold the global event and will bring it to Moffat in August 2017.
Thousands of competitors and visitors will descend upon the town when the World Championships take place.
Councillor Colin Smyth, the Council’s Events Champion said;
“While there literally is gold in the hills of Dumfries and Galloway, it is hard work and dedication that will make these World Championships a great attraction in 2017. I am so pleased that the vision the British Gold Panning Association had to bring this event here has paid off, and I look forward to supporting these World Championships wholeheartedly.”
Richard Deighton of the British Gold Panning Association said;
“We are overjoyed to have beaten off worldwide competition to win the rights to stage the most prestigious event within our calendar in the South of Scotland in 2017. We are confident that the event will have a positive impact on visitor numbers and tourism for Dumfries and Galloway before, during and long after the World Championships take place. We are thrilled with the support we have received in Moffat and feel it is the perfect showcase for gold panning.”
Adam Anderson of the Moffat & District Community Council said;
“Our Community Council is delighted that the British Gold Panning Association, who worked tirelessly on their Bid, was successful in winning the rights for the 2017 World Championships. This is a prestigious event in Gold Panning circles and we look forward to working closely with the officials of the British Gold Panning Association and Dumfries & Galloway Council to ensure that this will be a truly memorable week for everyone. Moffat is primarily a centre for tourism and this event will be a great boost to the local economy. I am sure that the opportunity to host these championships will be welcomed by everyone in the town.”
