BUCKINGHAM PALACE again declined to confirm yesterday that the Queen is heading for Perthshire as part of events for the G8 Summit.

Speculation of an impending visit by the monarch is sweeping the country, although neither the palace nor the Scottish Office was able to confirm any arrangements.

Each time G8 or G7 events are held in Britain, the Queen, as head of state, hosts a dinner for the other world leaders involved, and it appears likely she will do so when the G8 Summit comes to Gleneagles Hotel next month.

Locals are convinced she will visit, but it is understood a stay at her official residence, the Palace of Holyrood House, is considered too risky due to protests in Edinburgh.

It is believed any visit will involve an overnight stay at a private house, possibly Drummond Castle, Muthill, which has hosted members of the royal family many times.

A palace spokesman said yesterday, “Details of the G8 programme have yet to be announced by the Government,” and declined to make any further comment.