Residents and visitors in Edinburgh express disappointment as the annual torchlight procession that kicks off Hogmanay -- New Year’s Eve -- celebrations is cancelled due to high winds. Vikings from Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad (SMUHA) and pipe bands were due to lead 20,000 people carrying flaming torches through Edinburgh’s Old Town. Tourists Tom and Patrick Boyd-Lloyd say they are “very sad” about the cancellation, admitting that the wind is at almost “Wizard of Oz tornado windy”. With attention now turning to the weather warnings looming over Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street party and fireworks display, the couple, who have travelled from the US state of Texas for the celebrations, vow to not let it dampen their spirit, adding “I'm sure New Year's Eve, even with the rain, there's going to be a good time”. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES