Scotland Correspondent issue 8

70 years of revolutionary theatre Raasay ready to roll the whisky barrels Get turned on to oysters p1

Saints, soldiers and Jacobites at Spean Bridge Sporting estates still game Unearthing a mystery on Iona

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inside this issue 8 Fringe

party

Celebrating 70 years of fun

20 Dream

dram

Creating Raasay’s first legal whisky

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32 Sand,

sea and home

Fantasy island and a beach bargain

42 Plane

sailing

Flight of fancy and practical pleasure

50 Oyster

catchers

Celebrating Scotland’s only native oyster fishery

80 History

98

Uncovering evidence of Saint Columba on Iona

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mystery solved

Honey tap

Making money from honey

Wake up to walking The trail blazing boom

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It’s a date

A round-up of what’s on this month

Cover Photo

Photo by Field & McGlynn - ‘A Girl & A Gun - Louise Orwin’

60 Still

game

New lease of life for sporting estates

70 Destination

Spean Bridge History, adventure and romance at the crossroads of the Highlands p5

92 Bee

friendly

The plan to save the bees

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Fringe Benefits

Photo by JMA Photography - Frozen Light

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by Helen Lloyd

T

he world’s biggest and best celebration of the arts, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, celebrates its 70th birthday this year with yet another spectacular, innovative and international variety of shows.

Every August the 495,000 strong population of Scotland’s capital city almost doubles as performers and audiences flock to enjoy an eclectic mix of entertainments at numerous venues across the city.

The Fringe was born in 1947 when eight theatre companies turned up uninvited to perform at the inaugural Edinburgh International Festival.

Refused entry to the programme the companies decided to perform anyway, on the fringe of the Festival.

Over the last seven decades the Fringe has remained true to that spirit of defiance shown by the original

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Photo - Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society Party Time in Edinburgh

Photo

by Ruth Armstrong - Free Fringe p10 Music at National Museum of Scotland

Photo by Chris Scott - Museum after hours Friday Fringe

eight companies. By upholding its ethos of open access anyone with a story to tell and a venue willing to host them can participate.

This year visitors can expect to enjoy in excess of 30,000 performances of more than 2,000 shows. Everything from drama, dance, circus, comedy, music, musicals, opera, cabaret and variety are on offer along with a range of children’s shows, free shows, exhibitions and events.

“This is a very special year for the Fringe as we celebrate 70 years of defying the norm, of championing artistic freedom and providing a platform for artists around the world to come and present their work in

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a truly unique environment that is inclusive, inspiring, and often lifeaffirming,” said Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.

“The fringe movement has circled the globe and inspired a worldwide network of over 200 sister fringes, with fringes now taking place on every continent except Antarctica.

In the current climate of global uncertainty, fringes are more crucial than ever, continuing to provide artists with a space to express themselves without fear of censorship.

“The 2017 Fringe Programme reflects the principles that guide the fringe

movement, it is diverse, topical, challenging and of course, exciting.”

This year a feast of famous names return to Edinburgh for the 70th anniversary.

Comedian Ruby Wax appears in Edinburgh for three nights only with a show inspired by her best-selling book, A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled.

Sue Perkins brings her sparkling wit and favourite stories, while Sean Hughes makes a welcome return to the Fringe with Blank Book, where a team of highly talented comedians will make up a story live on stage.

Dead Ringers star Jan Ravens makes her Fringe debut with a show that takes on some of the key female figures in international politics, while comedian, writer and actor Robin Ince has two shows Robin Ince’s Rorschach Test and Pragmatic Insanity.

From the world of film and TV, Clive Anderson hosts the live incarnation of the legendary improvisational comedy TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway? – Live at the Fringe featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces.

Dave Johns, star of I Daniel Blake returns to his comedy roots with a show about his unexpected turn as a film star, and BAFTA TV awardwinning actress Monica Dolan has written and will perform in The B*easts, a solo show that explores how far one mum will go to give her child what she wants.

Dr Who legend Sylvester McCoy performs in A Joke, a new comedy

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Photo by Ruth Armstrong- Museum after hours Friday Fringe

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by Dan Freeman, while Sam Underwood (The Following, Dexter, Homeland) brings Losing Days, a story about losing his mind – and finding it again.

Famous Scots participating in the Fringe this year include Craig Ferguson, who last performed at the Fringe 24 years ago, before leaving Scotland to find fame in the US. Irvine Welsh presents two new shows – Creatives, a darkly comic pop-opera look that examines the contemporary music industry, and Performers, a black comedy that revolves around two gangsters auditioning for roles in a 1960s film, making its world premiere at the Fringe.

The Fringe is a great level playing field, providing an opportunity for emerging talent to rub shoulders and share facilities with established stars, for new material to be tested and new talent to be discovered.

Ones to watch in 2017 include ‘A GIRL & A GUN’ , the first Fringe show from Louis Orwin. This live multimedia performance structured as a live film-making experiment features a different male co-star (who has not seen the script before taking to the stage) at every performance.

Various Fringe performers will be challenged to accept the role, reading lines and stage directions live off an autocue as ‘He’ is is directed to do increasingly violent things to ‘Her’. The show is described as a witty, fun and unflinchingly provocative look at the relationship between women and violence in media and the intrinsic sexual objectification of women found all around us.

Photo by National Museums Scotland - After hours Friday Fringe

Photo by Lizzie Coombes - Pauline Mayers in ‘What if I told you’

‘WHAT IF I TOLD YOU’ is another debut performance, this time from Fringe first-timer Pauline Mayers.

her story as a black woman, a dancer and choreographer. It’s a story of universal truths and contradictions that everyone can relate to.

Last year Pauline hit a crisis point.

Perhaps not that unusual for a woman in her mid 40s, but a pretty big deal when it happens to you.

What if I Told You is her way of telling

‘SHOW ME THE MONEY’ is about the things artists and performers have to do to earn a living and thus provide secondary employment for the likes of you and me!

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It’s a funny, inspirational show by multimedia artist Paula Varjack looking at how artists manage to support their creative dreams.

Using a blend of documentary-style interviews with live performance it provides a painfully honest, yet ultimately optimistic portrait of life in contemporary Britain as government cuts bite.

‘ATTACHED’ is a family circus show that has wowed European audiences as much for the knockabout Laurel & Hardy-esque humour as for the brilliant circus skills on offer.

Breathtaking displays of highly skilled acrobatics and juggling combine with expressive clowning, evocative of the cream of the silent comedy double in this European smash-hit making its Fringe debut.

Photo by Gracefool- Collective ‘This Really Is Too Much’

Heather by Thomas Eccleshare

‘HEATHER’ by Thomas Eccleshare tells the story of a reclusive children’s writer who becomes wildly successful. Her books are treasured across the country. But when a troubling narrative starts to unfold, we find ourselves asking: what matters more, the storyteller or the story? Brilliantly imaginative and theatrically original, Heather is a short, sharp play about language, prejudice and the power of stories.

‘THUS SPOKE’ is a powerful dance piece coming to the Fringe as part of Canada Hub. This is a raw, loud and anti establishment howl of dissent from Frédérick Gravel, the enfant terrible of Canadian dance and Étienne Lepage, one of their most in demand novelists. They team up to create a piece that explodes the conventions of theatre and dance - set to a soundtrack of Jimi Hendrix.

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In ‘ MATT ABBOTT: TWO LITTLE DUCKS’ this young poet and political activist, who gets his hands dirty volunteering in places like the Calais Jungle, combines razor-sharp wit, storytelling and poetic flair to present this highly personal and unashamably political show.

‘THIS REALLY IS TOO MUCH’ is an outlandish, thought-provoking and wildly entertaining medley of absurd political speeches, talent contests, job interviews and box ticking which explores farcical stereotypes and preposterous power struggles.

Matt Abbott - In ‘Two Little Ducks’

Catherine Duquette - In #Instalove

‘#INSTALOVE’ is a one woman show from American Fringe first timer Catherine Duquette exploring the quest for love and what women especially will do to find it presented in game show like format.

By using game design as a dramatic tool the audience decide what happens on stage in fun yet meaningful interactions and are involved with the emotional consequences of their choices.

‘FRANKIE VAH’ by Luke Wright is a follow up play to Luke’s acclaimed ‘What I Learned From Johnny Bevan’.

Photo by idil Sukan - ‘ Frankie Vah’ by Luke Wright

Set in 1987 the play gorges on love, radical politics, skuzzy indie stardom, the politics of the later years of Thatcher’s government and Labour infighting. Featuring Jangling guitars courtesy Ian Catskilkin of the band Art Brut, visceral verse and a Morrissey sized measure of heartache. Shot through with romance and righteous anger.

‘WHAT I LEARNED FROM JOHNNY BEVAN’ took the 2015 Edinburgh Fringe by storm. The show received a Fringe First for the quality of the writing and Wright received a Stage Award for Acting Excellence for his hurricane performance. Now after touring extensively, being optioned for a film, invited to appear at the Houses of Parliament and selling out a three week London run, this critically acclaimed solo stage show returns to The Fringe for one week only (21-27 August)

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‘What I Learned from Johnny Bevan’ by Luke Wright

Also returning this year is Frozen Light with a show specifically created for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities Following their sell-out 2016 Fringe debut with The Forest, ‘HOME’ immerses audiences with PMLD in a multi-sensory story of discovery.

Frozen Light devised this accessible and inclusive production especially for teenagers and adults with PMLD. The play follows Scarlet and Olive in a world that is not how they remember it. The pair must learn how to survive and create a future together in an environment that is full of surprises.

“The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is a globally recognised platform that provides an important space for artists from Scotland and the world to show their work to international audiences, develop their skills and meet with arts industry professionals from across the world,” said Janet Archer, Chief Executive of Creative

Scotland.

As part of this year’s 70th anniversary celebrations the National Museum of Scotland is staging three fun-filled Friday nights of entertainment along with daily live music performances.

Following three years of sell-out success, the hugely popular Museum After Hours: Friday Fringe Takeover returns on Friday 11, 18 and 25 August. Offering a unique taste of the festival, performers will come together to showcase highlights from their acts against the inspiring backdrop of the National Museum of Scotland.

Artists from across the globe have been handpicked to perform at these events including Tago: Korean Drum II, who combine Martial arts with traditional instruments for an exciting and extreme drumming performance, Djuki Mala a high-energy and exuberant dance group fusing traditional Yolngu and contemporary pop culture, and Circus Abyssinia,

Photo by Chris Scott - Exploring The National Museum of Scotland

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a circus group from Ethiopia showcasing the thrills of the circus set to a soundtrack of Ethiopian songs.

With a different line-up each week, this adults-only extravaganza presents the best of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe all under one roof.

In addition to live performances, Fringe-goers can strike a pose at a themed selfie studio, explore a range of hands-on activities around the Museum, and enjoy pop-up bars as well as access to this summer’s fivestar exhibition, Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites.

Festival favourite Free Fringe Music, in association with Live Music Now Scotland, returns, providing daytime Fringe entertainment suitable for all the family. From pipes and whistles to fiddles and flutes, some of the best contemporary musical talents from across Scotland will perform live every day at 2pm in the Grand Gallery from 5–27 August.

Gilded Balloon also returns to the Museum with an inspiring programme featuring the very best in comedy, theatre and children’s shows over 27 days including La Vie dans une Marionette, part of the acclaimed New Zealand Season, and featuring physical theatre at its finest and fun for all the family; Frost and Lorca, a unique fusion of art, music and poetry and Ayesha Hazarika: State of the Nation, a one-hour comedy show from the backbenches of Westminster that lifts the lid on British politics.

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Raise a glass to Raasay

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I

n just a few weeks time a dream will come true with the birth of a new chapter in a long history as the Isle of Raasay Distillery opens its doors for business.

Although whisky production was probably rife on the tiny Hebridean island over the centuries this will be the first legal distillery on its shores as R&B Distillers bring this traditional Scottish craft to an unchartered whisky region.

Harnessing the raw elements of the unique terroir to create the first Raasay Scotch, which will be ready

Road to Raasay

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Alasdair Day with distillery plans

to drink from 2020 co-founders Alasdair Day and Bill Dobbie are realising a dream to make whisky in this uncommon location.

“It is the location; an island off an island with complex geology, water and island climate with probably the best views form any distillery in Scotland, that makes Raasay ideal for our innovative Scotch whisky distillery,” said Alasdair Day about what makes the project so unique.

R&B stands for Raasay and Borders, two unique landscapes brought together through one unique whisky company. Alasdair Day’s great grandfather, Allan MacDonald, hailed from the Hebrides while his other great grandfather, Richard Day was a master- blender in the Borders in the early 19th Century. It is this history that has prompted R&B’s ongoing project to build distilleries at these twin roots, starting in the Hebrides.

Raasay is a small island, only 14 miles in length, situated off the East

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Raasay views

coast of Skye. The island’s 120 residents have watched eagerly as a disused Gothic villa hotel, Borodale House, has been transformed into the new distillery, adjacent visitors’ centre and Na Tùsairean Club members’ accommodation.

It’s been a long journey. In February 2016, R&B Distillers received permission from Highland Council to bring the first distillery to Raasay. The young brand subsequently secured grants from the Food Processing Marketing and Co-Operation Grants Scheme, as well as the Highlands and Islands Enterprise, for the development of a visitor’s centre which is projected to bring in 12,000 visitors to Raasay in the first year.

The distillery on Raasay will be furnished with two copper pot stills sourced from Frilli in Tuscany and R&B predict that it will be able to produce 150,000 bottles of Scotch whisky a year.

Single malt, Raasay ‘While We Wait’

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Distillery site

is an aptly named taste of the style of whisky that will be produced on Raasay. It is lightly peated to reflect the volcanic mineral content in the water supply, and balanced by fruity notes from Tuscan red wine finishing casks.

The team also has the long-term ambition of using all-local ingredients – water, peat and barley– to create a spirit that is a true reflection of this uncommon terroir.

In June this year, R&B Distillery commenced Barley growing trails on the island to assess the possibility of growing and ripening barley suitable for whisky making locally with farmers and crofters.

The distillery will be independently owned and operated and is expected to generate employment for up to 10 per cent of the island residents.

Only a few weeks ago, in July, R&B announced the distillery team who will be integral to whisky production: the team is comprised of an island resident, a young distilling graduate and a master distiller with decades of whisky prowess.

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Looking across to Borodale House

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Designed by Olli Blair from ABIR Architects and Allen Associates, the distillery incorporates the Victorian Borodale house and the modernity of a brand new distillery. However,

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the main feature of the design brief was to showcase and compliment the stunning views from the distillery site. This has been taken into careful consideration throughout.

R&B Distillers are proud to be utilising some of the raw talent found on Raasay: they have employed Raasay local, Norman Gillies, as Distillery Manager. Norman was

born and raised on Raasay and has been involved in the distillery project from the early days, working as Site Engineer and then Ground Foreman on the construction process. With

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a strong engineering background coupled with experience on the build from the outset, Norman understands the workings of the distillery.

Iain Robertson has been appointed as the Distiller and has relocated to the island to join the team. Iain is a recent Honours graduate of the Heriot Watt Brewing and Distilling school. During his studies, he took a placement at North British grain distillery and worked at Edinburgh’s The Scotch Whisky Experience as one of their highly knowledgeable tour guides. Iain is not only formally educated in the art and science of distilling but is innovative and enthusiastic about respectfully pushing the boundaries of the spirit.

Master Distiller Chris Anderson will be joining Iain and Norman for the inaugural five months to oversee the initial distillation. He has experience at Dewars and United Distillery, and has helped with production at Ardnamurchan and Kilchoman distilleries – he will lend this expertise to the Raasay Distillery. Most recently he has been involved with the Lakes Distillery in Cumbria and the construction of neighbouring Torabhaig Distillery on the Isle of Skye.

Chris will be invaluable to R&B Distillers as they establish one of Scotland’s newest whisky distilleries when it begins business next month.

Distillery site

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Photo by Scott Mooney- Iain Robertson

Members’ Lounge

Members’ accomodation

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Life’s a beach

Photos by Galbraith - New Aberdour Beach

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by Helen Lloyd

I

magine having your own stretch of unspoilt beach, complete with golden sands, smooth rounded pebbles, dramatic rocks and even a romantic cave or two to explore.

It may not be a sun-kissed tropical paradise but a rare opportunity has arisen to own over 36 acres of prime real estate situated among the stunning landscape of North East Scotland. And, all for the fraction of

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the price of a London studio flat or Edinburgh apartment.

An unspoilt stretch of New Aberdour beach near Fraserburgh has been put on the market for offers over ÂŁ90,000.

The stunning stretch of coastline recently appeared in the movie remake of Whisky Galore is a popular destination for tourists from around the world and a haven for a wide variety of wildlife and birds.

New Aberdour Beach

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Steeped in history the beach is believed to have been where St Drostan landed in 580AD before founding a church in the nearby village and a monastery at Old Deer, Aberdeenshire.

Drostan was one of 12 companions who sailed from Ireland to Scotland around 563 with St Columba. A holy well dedicated to him lies nearby while his bones, said to work miracles on the sick, lie in New Aberdour Church. There is even a

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feast day, 15 December, named in his honour.

The beach is being sold on behalf of the current owners, who wish to remain anonymous, by property agents Galbraith who are managing the sale of a Mill Farm Farmhouse, just 400 metres from the beach.

The four-bedroom house, which is situated just outside the 19th century village of New Aberdour and just 46 miles from Aberdeen International

Little Ross Island

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Airport, is on the market for offers over £185,000.

The traditional Grade B Listed Farmhouse, with over 235 sqm of floor space, is in a very quiet peaceful location but does require some internal refurbishment.

Included in the sale is an adjacent detached steading and outbuildings.

However, if that beach is not big enough or sufficiently secluded Galbraith is offering a whole island off the coast of south-west Scotland, complete with a six-bedroom cottage, for offers over £325,000.

Little Ross Island, currently owned

by St Mary’s Isle Estate, enjoys a fabulous location, just off Meikle Ross headland on the mainland, overlooking the small rocks of Sugarloaf and Fox Craig.

Only accessible by private boat or

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Little Ross Island

Lighthouse on Little Ross

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New Aberdour Beach

helicopter the 29-acre island has a fascinating history as home to a working lighthouse tower, designed and built by Alan Stevenson and first lit on 1 January 1843.

The light, along with Buchan Ness and the Rhinns of Islay, was hailed by William Thomson (later Lord Kelvin) as being “undoubtedly the three best revolving lights in the world”.

Little Ross Island offers a wonderful place to retreat to on holiday or a peaceful lifestyle alternative for anyone looking to escape the ratrace.

Although the operational lighthouse tower and separate sighting tower are not included in the sale, as they are still owned and managed by the Commissioner for Northern Lighthouses, their presence has little impact on the island. Since automation in 1961 the lighthouse tower no longer requires full-time staff only a few discreet site visits made by the local harbour master

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throughout the year.

However, the sale does include the original six-bedroom lighthouse keeper’s cottage, which was last updated in the mid-1980s, and three B-listed ruinous barns, each offering fantastic development potential.

There are sheltered moorings on the north and more modern slipway on the north-west of the island, both accessible at high tide, with a substantial marina in Kirkcudbright for longer-term mooring.

David Corrie, senior associate at Galbraith, Castle Douglas, said: “Back in the 1900’s, the island was home to the head lighthouse keeper, underkeeper and their families, extending to 16 people, with a small dairy and piggery to provide subsistence for this family community.

“With a bit of TLC, the properties on the island could be turned into something truly stunning, with Little

Ross Island once again being the perfect island retreat for future generations to enjoy.

“Private islands rarely come up for sale at an affordable price and particularly one with a habitable house and additional properties.

Given the exciting prospect Little Ross Island presents, we expect a lot of interest from all over the UK as well as abroad.”

The south-west of Scotland is well known for its mild climate, attractive unspoilt countryside and abundance and diversity of its recreational and sporting pursuits, such as shooting, stalking, as well as trout and salmon fishing on the region’s numerous rivers and lochs.

The Galloway Forest Park, well known for its beauty and tranquillity, is also recognised as Britain’s first Dark Sky Park, and provides astronomers phenomenal views of the stars with a newly opened observatory.

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Flight of luxury

Photos by Lisa Airplanes - The Akoya in flight over water

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A

private plane company is targeting wealthy residents and visitors to Scotland with a revolutionary fold-away aircraft capable of landing on water, snow and land.

The French aviation experts believe Scotland’s numerous lochs and islands make it an ideal playground for their new two-seater amphibious Light Sport Aircraft.

Scotland is made for seaplanes.

It has 6,200 miles of coastline, 790 major islands and 562 large, freshwater lochs. It is also the only part of the UK to have a successful commercial seaplane service.

Loch Lomond Seaplanes has been operating for more than 13 years,

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Easy to store

Inside the Cockpit

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A range of about 1,000 miles

making about 200 flights per month between March and October and carrying around 10,000 travellers a year on scenic aerial tours of the West Coast.

Now rich flyers can have an amphibious plane all of their own. After years of research and development the first deliveries of the new €480,000 (around £435,000) Akoya are due to start next year.

The company has already received up to 100 orders and expressions of interest from around the world, including Scotland.

“We obviously can’t reveal any details about our potential buyers in Scotland but it’s clear our prospects there can foresee how they might take advantage of the Akoya’s versatility within Scotland, with all its lochs, islands and beautiful inland landscapes,” said Vanessa Troillard, Marketing Manager of Lisa Airplanes.

“The Akoya has the ability to land on water, snow or land without the need

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to make any changes on the airplane and it has very good performance.

“It’s easy for some of our prospective buyers to imagine nice trips to Scandinavia for instance, while others who are keener on warmer destinations have already planned to fly from Edinburgh or Aberdeen to the French Riviera.

“The main asset of the Akoya is its ability to combine fun and comfort with the huge degree of freedom it offers in destination choice.”

The aircraft, which has a range of almost 1,000 miles, is as fast as a sports car, with a maximum speed of over 124 mph, but all the economy of a small city runaround, at around 62 mpg.

Built by Lisa Airplanes in Le Bourgetdu-Lac, southeast France, the Akoya comes with a host of unique, stylish and practical features. Its foldaway wings means it can be parked on an ordinary household driveway, towed

behind a car or even a yacht.

The company believes there is a definite gap in the market for a versatile small seaplane with very short take-off and landing capabilities. The Akoya needs only 200m [656ft] to take off or land, making it ideal for even small lakes or landing strips.

Inside the cockpit both the pilot and passenger can relax in luxury in the unusually large and fully adjustable seats to enjoy the view out of the panoramic electrically operated canopy.

There is also a generous expandable luggage compartment with plenty of room for two cabin suitcases as well as golf clubs, skis, fishing rods, or diving equipment.

Aimed primarily at the personal transportation and leisure markets the Akoya is designed for fun and comfort with a host of extra safety features.

The aircraft’s extremely aerodynamic fuselage means it’s not easily affected by gusts of wind and gives the aircraft a far greater glide range to find the right landing spot, in the highly unlikely event of an engine failure.

And, if that wasn’t enough, the Akoya also has its own built in parachute capable of lowering the entire aircraft and its occupants to the ground in an emergency.

“So far the majority of orders and interest has come from the US,” said Ms Troillard.

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“But we’ve also had some from France, England, Spain, Greece, South Africa, India, China, New Zealand and Scotland.

“We really think Scotland is a perfect playground for the Akoya with all its Lochs and coastline and fabulous landscapes.

“I lived in Edinburgh for two years and I enjoyed visiting places around the country. The landscape is amazing but I did it by car, not with a seaplane. I would have loved to see some places from the sky.”

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Pearl of an idea to celebrate the “best Oysters in the world” T he catch from Scotland’s only wild, native oyster fishery is the focal point of a brand new seafood festival – being launched next month.

The three-day Stranraer Oyster Festival – believed to be the first of its type in Scotland – aims to encourage visitors to the town to

celebrate the seafood heritage of Stranraer in south-west Scotland.

The event, which takes place from 15th to 17th September, marks the start of the oyster harvesting season which runs from September through to April.

The weekend festivities will

Photo by Martin Troon - Loch Ryan Oysters

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commence with an oyster landing ceremony, complete with oysters being piped ashore, live music, a giant paella for visitors to the festival to share in, a community performance with the support of Oceanallover and fireworks.

Festivities over the weekend will include oyster tasting

Photo by Kim Ayres - Anna Hazzard, Romano Petrucci and Cllr. Adam Wilson

Anyone for Paella?

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Photo Kim Ayres - There will be live music

and competitions, cooking demonstrations and classes, wild food forages, a skiff regatta and a lively traders’ market packed with locally produced food drink, arts and crafts.

Families are also invited to enjoy craft and kite making workshops, ghost walk tours and extreme pond dipping – a catch landed from the floor of Loch Ryan so that children can explore what lives at the bottom of the sea.

“The native oyster was once widespread around Scotland and much of the UK but has been

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Photos by Colin Tennant - Loch Ryan Oysters

Stranraer & Loch Ryan

harvested to near extinction which means almost all other oysters for sale in the UK come from oyster farms,” said a spokesperson for the new festival.

Hardeep Singh Kohli

“The Stranraer Oyster Festival provides the first opportunity for members of the public to try these unique oysters on the banks of the sea loch from which they are carefully harvested.”

Most of the festival activities over the weekend are free of charge for visitors to participate in celebrating Stranraer r’s unique seafood heritage as being home to the only native oyster fishery in Scotland.

There will also be guest appearances from Hardeep Singh Kohli and Mr Bloom, from Cbeebies, live music throughout the weekend from bands including Gnoss and Pere Mata and ‘The Big Oyster Bash’ on the Saturday evening introduced

by Hardeep Singh Kohli and headlined with live music from The

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Mr Bloom

Dangleberries.

“We wanted to create a festival that would involve and inspire our whole town, and which will create a late summer tourism highlight to attract visitors to Stranraer,” said Romano Petrucci, chair of Stranraer Development Trust, the organisation behind the festival.

“Food tourism is one of the fastestgrowing tourism sectors in the UK, and Stranraer’s heritage means the town is perfectly placed to capitalise on that growing interest in themed food festivals.

“By organising a festival that showcases the stunning beauty of Loch Ryan, the unique seafood that resides within the Loch and the warmth of the people of Stranraer we are looking forward to showing off our beautiful town to the world.”

Oysters might be considered a luxury food but the organisers are keen to emphasise that oyster festivals are far from being elitist.

Photo by Kim Ayres

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“Oyster festivals take the oyster as a focal point and then create a celebration of local food, local culture and the local community around it,” added Mr Petrucci.

new festival, and, for visitors who don’t want to try a Loch Ryan Oyster, we’ll have plenty of oyster ice creams available for people to indulge in a seaside favourite!”

“That’s what we’ve done with this

Leading ferry company, Stena Line,

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has been unveiled as the headline sponsor of the festival. As part of Stena Line’s sponsorship a special day trip has been launched to encourage people from Northern Ireland to visit the festival for a fun day out for the whole family.

Photo by Colin Tennant - Unwanted Oyters are returned to the sea

famous. Legend has it that Julius Caesar once wrote that Loch Ryan oysters are the best in the world!

The festival has also been designed to offer volunteering opportunities and training for local young people in media skills and theatrical performance, and it has the backing of The Holywood Trust; a charity that helps young people throughout Dumfries and Galloway fulfil their potential in cultural, educational and social aspects of their lives.

Photo by Kim Ayres

Orla Noonan, Stena Line’s travel commercial manager, Irish Sea, North said the company was proud to be a sponsor.

“There’s an action-packed programme with lots to see and do and something for everyone over the three days,” she said.

“Stena Line has been part of the local

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community for over 30 years and we hope that through our support of the Oyster Festival along with our other sponsorships, including that of Stranraer Football Club, we can help with the continued regeneration of the town of Stranraer.”

Loch Ryan oysters, which have sometimes been found to contain a pearl or two, are internationally

Helen Turner, of the Holywood Trust, said: “This is a great opportunity for local young people to contribute to a major event and to be at the heart of its delivery, while at the same time, developing their personal and professional skills.

“It is our hope that young people from across the South West of Scotland will come along and enjoy this unique festival.”

Photo by Kim Ayres - Chefs Tony Pearce and John Henry

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Game on for country sporting estates

Photo by Gerry McCann - Spot of Fly fishing

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by Scott Aitken

A

sharp increase in interest from overseas visitors has created something of a boom for Scotland’s sporting estates.

According to leading sporting agency Galbraith the number of American visitors especially is on the rise.

Many are taking advantage of the favourable exchange rate between the dollar and the pound to indulge their passion for shooting, fishing and stalking in the Highlands.

The Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group (SCSTG) estimates that in the UK alone there are over four million domestic country sports participants with many more overseas, including 38 million in the USA.

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Photo by Byron Pace - Edzell Villagers celebrate coming Grouse Season

Scotland is widely recognised as the birthplace of many of the world’s premier country sports and foreign visitors have been coming to Scotland in their droves to sample the country’s unrivalled sports offering.

“We have been handling a great many more bookings from grouse parties at this time of year than previous years, and in particular from overseas markets,” said Robert Rattray, head of Galbraith Sporting Lets.

Although traditional continental markets, including Germany and Spain, have continued to hold strong the most notable increase has been the surge in visitors coming from the US. “Scotland’s grouse moors and big four salmon fishing rivers compete with the best sporting destinations in the world and given favourable market conditions, the weakening of the pound and excellent transport

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links from America, Scotland’s country sports industry is capitalising on its enduring appeal,” added Mr Rattray.

In view of the rise in demand Galbraith has appointed a specialist sporting consultant, Rory Paterson, a former Scottish gillie now based in New York, to handle the increasing interest from the American market and to promote Scotland’s world class fishing and shooting on an international scale.

“There is significant appetite from American country sports enthusiasts to enjoy the traditional Scottish field sports experience,” said Mr Paterson.

“While the field sports are the main driver of demand, the history, traditions, whisky and ease of travel all play a part. I have been overwhelmed by the interest and enthusiasm and I am really excited to showcase the best of Scotland to an American audience.”

Sporting Lets is one of the country’s leading provider of tailored packages for visiting country sports enthusiasts. Whether it be a grand lodge and mixed week of sport to try and bag an elusive Macnab, a week long or single day’s grouse shooting, partridge or pheasant shooting, salmon fishing or red deer stalking there’s plenty to choose from with nearly 80 retained estates in its portfolio.

The Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group’s (SCSTG) ‘Game for Growth’ strategy aims to increase the value of country sports to the Scottish economy by £30 million by 2020 – bringing the total to £185 million.

“It is very encouraging that American country sports enthusiasts are showing increased interest in visiting Scotland. This will add to those from Scandinavia, Germany and France who have been attracted through our marketing and promotional work this year, helped in part by VisitScotland Growth Funding. I have no doubt it

Photo by Gerry McCann

will make an important contribution to our aim of increasing the economic value of Scottish country sports tourism by £30m by 2020,” said Andrew Grainger of SCSTG.

The rise in international interest comes as new figures reveal the extent of how much is spent in rural communities across Scotland as a direct result of visitors to sporting estates.

On average more than £500,000 is spent per Scottish grouse estate before a shot is even fired on the start of the season, the “Glorious 12th” of August.

Although the season lasts only 18 weeks maximum, the economic impact grouse estates have on local communities, all the year round, has been hailed as significant.

A survey of 45 grouse estates across Scotland, conducted by Scotland’s seven regional moorland groups, has found that over £23 million flows

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directly into local businesses in trade generated by estate activity.

That sum, which does not take into account wages paid to gamekeepers or other staff, means downstream businesses, from local garages to building firms, benefit from business worth, on average, £514,886 from each estate.

The poll, which assessed financial accounts for 2015/2016, did not look at the sums accommodation providers receive from the influx of visiting shooters between August and December.

Holdings of all sizes across seven moorland regions provided accounts, with the results showing the highest local expenditure and most employment stemming from larger, commercial driven grouse moors.

Over the studied period, there was significant investment made in buildings, public path repairs and renewable energy projects as well as

core grouse moor management.

“Grouse shooting attracts criticism in some quarters but the survey tells the story of the value of country sports to smaller rural communities,” said Lianne MacLennan of Scotland’s regional moorland groups.

“The results do not show the wages that keep the gamekeepers and their families in the glen villages. What we wanted to understand better is how the impacts trickle down. There is not a rural community in these seven areas that could afford to lose either the number of jobs created by the grouse estates or the business people are deriving from all the work that goes on in these places.

“It is not just shooting-related businesses, either, it is everything from wine sellers to clothing companies, fencers, architects and garages.”

Out of polled estates in Perthshire, canvassed by Tayside and Central

Photo by Byron Pace

Scotland Moorland Group, three respondent holdings generated local contracts totalling almost £2 million.

Businesses in Angus benefitted to the tune of over £4.2 million from seven respondent estates while the Grampian region saw £3.1 million invested locally across 10 estates.

Trades and services around Loch Ness and Inverness-shire secured trade worth £6.2 million from 11 estates providing accounts. Speyside saw local income of nearly £4 million from six polled estates and the towns and villages around the Lammermuir Hills in the Scottish Borders enjoyed over £2.7 million of business from six estates, with grouse shooting as their principal income.

The final total across all the estates who participated was £23,169 891.20, with two estates in the Tomatin area creating over £880,000 of downstream economic benefit.

Perthshire-based building company

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Frankerton work on moors from Morayshire to the Borders, with 75 percent of their businesses coming directly from grouse estates. Such regular contracts have enabled the firm to expand from two employees only 10 years ago.

“We employ nine people now and six of those are working full-time for estates, with the others working on other construction contracts such

Painting by Aurthur Fitzwilliam Tate

as wind farms. We, too, use local hotels and businesses when we are working. That is when you see how far into communities the work generated, goes,” said Frankerton’s Bryan Paterson.

However, it’s not just all about money. Conservation also plays a big part in the activities of shooting estates.

Photo by Gerry McCann

Photo by Gerry McCann

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Photo by Gerry McCann

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Photo by Gerry McCann

Photo by Gerry McCann

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Recently the number of shooting estates taking part in a groundbreaking project to raise efforts in protecting hen harriers in Scotland has reached its highest level.

Some 16 estates covering 325,000 acres volunteered this year to place monitoring cameras on their land in order to protect hen harrier nests as part of the ‘Heads Up for Harriers’ project.

“There is a genuine commitment from estates to see the harrier flourish and we firmly believe that estates and gamekeepers should be part of the wider collaborative efforts to increase the harrier population,” said David Johnstone, chairman of Scottish Land & Estates.

Many estates helped surveyors from RSPB and the Scottish Raptor Study Groups to carry out the 2016 UK hen harrier survey for which results were announced in June.

“There is no doubt that partnership working does produce results and this is a point we will make constructively in the forthcoming independent review of grouse moor management that has been commissioned by the Scottish Government,” added Mr Johnstone.

The Heads Up for Harriers Project is undertaken by the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage.

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Photo by Guy Phillips

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Photo by Gerry McCann - At the going down of the sun we will remember them

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Spotlight on Spean P

roud, unyielding and defiant three giants of men carved from stone stand guard over the rugged landscape of Glen Spean and beyond.

Unveiled in 1952 by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother the statue of the chisel-jawed warriors commemorates the best of the best. The British, Americans, French, Belgians, Norwegians, Poles, Dutch and even German jews who became Commandos during the Second World War. It was in these hills and mountains that more than 25,000 volunteers were turned into a world renowned

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Photo by Gerry McCann - The Commando Memorial

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force of elite troops capable of fighting in every theatre of war across the globe.

Every year thousands of visitors visit the Commando Memorial to pay tribute to those who served and died in the fight for freedom.

It is a poignant place, especially at sunset, amid an area of the country immersed in history and adventure.

The memorial at Spean Bridge, with its spectacular views of Ben Nevis, the Grey Corries and the western end of the Great Glen, lies just six miles from Achnacarry, the Commandos’ Basic Training Centre from 1942.

As the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan Cameron the site is no stranger to military men and the vagaries of war.

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The original castle was built about 1655, around the same time as the Camerons finally ended their 360-year feud with the Chattan Confederation led by the Clan Mackintosh at the Stand-off at the Fords of Arkaig.

The house that stands there today was built in 1802 as a replacement for the castle which was destroyed in 1746 after the Battle of Culloden in retaliation for the Camerons’ support of the Jacobite cause.

Today Achnacarry House remains home of the 27th Chief of Clan Cameron, Donald Cameron of Lochiel and although it is not open to the public visitors are encouraged to visit the Clan Cameron Museum about a quarter-mile from the castle.

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Photo by Keeshu - Achnacarry Castle

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Photo by Steven Brown - High Bridge

Between Achnacarry Castle and Loch Arkaig is a path of interwoven trees known as The Dark Mile along which, up on a hillside to the north, lies a cave said to have hidden Bonnie Prince Charlie as he fled the aftermath of Culloden.

At the end of the route is a deep pool beneath the Cia-Aig Waterfall known locally as The Witches Cauldron.

According to legend a witch was chased to her death there many centuries ago by Cameron clansmen who accused her of cursing their cattle. More latterly the spot featured in the movie Rob Roy, starring Liam Neeson.

Spean Bridge itself got its name as a result of the Jacobite troubles.

After the uprising of 1715 the British Government sent George Wade, later promoted to Field Marshall, north to help pacify the Highlands.

Over the next 12 years he oversaw the construction of more than 240 miles of roads and over 30 bridges, including one across the Spean River

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Photo by Magda Strzelczyk

Photo by Gregory J Kingslay - Caledonian Canal

just a mile downstream from the village.

longer vacation with plenty to do for visitors of all ages.

Although the old High Bridge is now a ruin it was here the first shots were fired on the 16 August in the Jacobite Uprising of 1745. A detachment of 80 government troops were routed by just 11 men and piper of the clan MacDonell.

An abundance of outdoor activities, including hillwalking, climbing, watersports, mountain biking and wildlife watching, provide for an energetic getaway while those seeking a more sedate retreat can just sit back and soak in the views.

But bloodshed has seeped into the surrounding land a lot longer than that. At nearby Invergarry, about 20 minutes away by car, is the gruesomely named Well of Seven Heads. The monument marks a grisly event in the 1660s when seven men accused of murdering members of the Keppoch family were hunted down and killed. Their decapitated heads were washed in the well before being presented to the Chief of the Glengarry Macdonalds as proof justice had been served.

Only a few miles from Spean Bridge there is the Caledonian Canal, a spectacular feat of early 19th century engineering.

Apart from the history Spean Bridge and surrounding locality is an ideal destination for a short-break or

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Constructed by Thomas Telford this vital inland passage for shipping was carved through the Great Glen connecting the Atlantic at Fort William and the North Sea at Inverness.

For those more spiritually inclined there is also St Margaret’s Church at Roy Bridge, just three miles from Spean Bridge. This beautiful 1929 building contains a shrine to Saint Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first saint.

St. Mary MacKillop

Her father and mother were both from Roy Bridge and emigrated to Australia around 1838.

Mary MacKillop’s ancestors are buried in Cille Choirill, home of a 15th century Catholic Church on the hillside above Roy Bridge attracting numerous Australians and pilgrims of other nationalities every year.

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Photos by University of Glasgow - Bishop’s House ruin on Iona

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Mystery of ruins on sacred isle solved at last A

puzzle dating back almost 1,500 years has been solved by archaeologists from Glasgow University.

Experts using the latest technology have uncovered conclusive evidence that a wooden hut traditionally associated with St Columba at the monastery on the island of Iona does indeed date to his lifetime in the late sixth century AD.

Carbon dating has led to the significant breakthrough, which categorically proves samples of hazel charcoal, unearthed from an excavation of a simple wattle and timber structure on Iona 60 years ago, dates back to the exact period Columba lived and worked at the Inner Hebridean monastery. It may be the monk’s ‘cell’ where he prayed and studied in isolation.

The samples, excavated in 1957

by British archaeologist Professor Charles Thomas, were kept in his garage in Cornwall, preserved in

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matchboxes, until 2012 when they were given to what is now Historic Environment Scotland. A University of Glasgow team of archaeologists identified the significance of the finds and recently submitted the samples for carbon dating.

St Columba, known in Gaelic as Colum Cille ‘the dove of the Church’, is widely revered as a key figure who brought Christianity to Scotland from Ireland, landing on Iona in AD 563.

The ‘Life of St Columba’, written 100 years after his death by his successor Adomnán, described Columba writing in his cell on a rocky hillock, called Tòrr an Aba or ‘the mound of the abbot’, within the monastery looking out his door towards the mountains of Mull.

When Professor Thomas’ team excavated the carbonised remains of wattle walls of a small hut were unearthed below layers of loose beach pebbles, suggesting the wooden structure had burned down and the area deliberately filled over.

The site was later marked with a cross.

Until recently the finds from the site were believed to be missing, but a project led by University of Glasgow archaeologists Dr Ewan Campbell and Dr Adrián Maldonado re-located the samples.

“This discovery is massive. St Columba is a key figure in Western Christendom. He was the national patron saint of Scotland in the Middle Ages,” said Dr Adrián Maldonado.

“We were granted access to the original finds from Charles Thomas, and we could work on his notes and charcoal samples which were excavated in 1957. Luckily Thomas kept hold of them, as he knew they were important, and because they were kept dry, they were still in a good condition.

“Thomas always believed he and his team had uncovered Columba’s original wooden hut, but they could never prove it because

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Unearthed nail

Charcol from St. Columba’s Hut

St. Columba in his cell

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Archive boxes

the technology wasn’t there.

Radiocarbon dating was in its infancy, it had only been discovered a year earlier in 1956, so there was not a lot they could do with the samples.

“So for us, 60 years later, to be able to send the original samples off to the radiocarbon dating labs and have them come back showing, within the margin of error, as something which may have been built in the lifetime of St Columba, is very exciting.

“This is as close as any archaeologist has come to excavating a structure built during the time of St Columba, and it is a great vindication of the archaeological instincts of Thomas and his team. It is a remarkable lesson in the value of curating excavation archives for as long as it takes, to make sure the material is ready for the next wave of technology.”

Scientific analysis of the hazel stakes and the results show the hut dated back to AD 540-650. Columba died in 597AD. Altogether, 10 radiocarbon dates were returned from samples from Thomas’ excavations, all dating to the early medieval period (AD 5001100).

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Earliest image of St. Columba circa 700 A.D.

Catach of Columba, Royal Irish Academy

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“The results of the radiocarbon dating are nothing short of exhilarating. The remains on top of Tòrr an Aba had been dismissed as from a much later date. Now we know they belonged to a structure which stood there in Columba’s

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lifetime,” said Professor Thomas Clancy, Celtic and Gaelic historian at the University of Glasgow.

“More than that, the dates, and our new understanding of the turning of the site into a monument not long

after its use, makes it pretty clear that this was St Columba’s day or writing house. From here, he oversaw the day-to-day activities of his monastery.”

Richard Strachan, Senior

Iona Abbey and Ross of Mull

Archaeologist at Historic Environment Scotland, described the results of the carbon dating tests as “hugely significant and really exciting”.

“The radiocarbon dates have confirmed the Tòrr an Aba structure

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excavated in the 1950s to be consistent with Columba’s presence on Iona in the 6th Century AD and provides compelling evidence this was Columba’s writing hut, as described by Adomnan,” he said.

“It endorses Thomas’s meticulous curation of his archive for over 60 years ago and demonstrates the huge value in its re-examination.

The team at the University of Glasgow has done an amazing job synthesising his extensive

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excavation, and combined with the considerable other archaeological work of Iona definitely add up to more than the sum of the parts. It is a huge regret that Professor Thomas did not live to see these results.�

Iona Abbey and St. Martin’s Cross

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Photos by Scottish GovernmentRoseanna Cunningham, Environment Secretary, and Paula Murdock Head Gardner at the Hidden Gardens

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A decade to halt decline of pollinating insects A

new strategy has been launched to make Scotland a more pollinator friendly place by protecting indigenous bee and butterfly populations.

Since 1980 the number of pollinating insects in Scotland - honey bees, bumble bees, the solitary bee, butterflies and hoverflies - have declined by an estimated 51 per cent, leading to fears of a negative impact on agriculture, food security, the economy and human health.

The new Pollinator Strategy calls for the restoration and creation of flower rich habitats, greater use of green urban infrastructures such as roof top gardens, the development and use of pollinator friendly pest control, and new research into the impact of climate change on bee and butterfly numbers.

Announcing the project Scotland’s Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham warned that failure

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to carry out urgent action could be catastrophic.

“Scotland’s biodiversity is one of our key assets, and the contribution the humble bumble bee and other pollinators make to this wonderful environment should not be underestimated. That is why we are committed to making Scotland a more pollinator friendly place,” she said.

“Pressures like land use change, pesticides, pollution, disease and climate change are threatening these life-giving insects, so we must act now to protect the pollinators and in turn safeguard our environment, our food and in turn our health.”

Scientists and environmentalists around the world have expressed serious concerns over the use of neonicotinoid pesticides an their apparent link to the rapid decline in vital pollinator species.

Several scientific studies in recent

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years have claimed that bees exposed to even small quantities of these nerve agent neonics suffer greatly. Research shows that exposed bees can become disorientated and lose the ability to share information with each other or even find their way back to the hive.

Neonicotinoids, first introduced in the mid-1990s as a replacement for older chemicals, are absorbed by plants making making them poisonous to pests and pollinators.

It’s not just bees that suffer. Research by the Universities of Stirling and Sussex, in partnership with Butterfly Conservation and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, discovered pesticides also have a major negative impact on butterflies.

Over the least few years the decline of at least 15 species of butterflies have been linked to neonicotinoid use, including Small Tortoiseshell, Small Skipper and Wall species.

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“The study not only identified a worrying link between the use of neonicotinoids and declines in butterflies, but also suggests that the strength of their impact on many species could be huge,” said Ecologist Dr Andre Gilburn of the University of Stirling.

The new 10-year Pollinator Strategy is a top priority project in Scotland’s Biodiversity: A Route Map To 2020 as a strong pollinator ecosystem will also contribute to the Environmental Sustainability objective of the country’s Good Food Nation policy.

Scottish Natural Heritage has led the development of the Strategy working closely with a range of environmental and land management organisations.

Much of the input and advice for the strategy has come from the Bee Farmers Association, Buglife, the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, the Centre for Ecology & Hyrdology, Scottish Environment Link, the National Farmers Union Scotland as well as Scottish Land & Estates

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“Growing evidence shows our native bees and insects that carry out pollination are facing tough times. Pollination is crucial for our environment - and, therefore, our own health, wealth and wellbeing.,” said Mike Cantlay, Chairman of SNH.

“This strategy, a key part of the Scottish Biodiversity 2020 route map, sets out what needs to be done to ensure these bees and insects survive and thrive for generations to come, contributing to healthy ecosystems and landscapes in our country.”

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Photos by Gerry McCann - Stuart Thompson

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Busy bee business

by Gerry McCann

H

ighland entrepreneurs MaryAnn and Stuart Thompson have a special interest in protecting Scotland’s bee population.

The former Strathclyde University chemistry graduates have built a successful business developing a range of bees-wax oil used for sports therapy, holistic and remedial massage treatments.

Operating out of their home in Nairn, near Inverness the couple and their three children operate four hives of their own and buy in extra supplies from other local bee-keepers.

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The success of the Highland Wax Company and their wide range of products, which are used for everything from relaxation and sport injuries to skin conditions and baby

treatments , has grown rapidly. The couple are all already exporting items across the UK and beyond.

Bees can travel up to three miles in search of nectar and pollen, with a typical 60,000 strong colony flying the equivalent distance of to the moon every day, so ensuring the organic ingredients and health of their bees is essential.

“The inspiration for our products has been influenced by many sources,” said Mary-Anne.

“We both started our careers as analytical chemists in the pharmaceutical industry in Kent before I branched out into Sports and Remedial Massage Therapies and Stuart into forestry back home in Scotland.

“A love of nature and sport, and a concern for the environment feature heavily in our lifestyle and this is reflected in our products.

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“We started keeping bees, partly due to our interest in the manufacture of our prime ingredient, Scottish Beeswax, but primarily due to concern about the plight of the honeybee.

“The development of our products has allowed us to indulge our analytical chemistry experience,

while looking after our bees has given us the opportunity to work with and look after nature as a family.”

All the products featured on the company website, www. highlandwax.co.uk, are made from the finest natural ingredients and packaged with recyclable and sustainable materials.

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Photo by Gerry McCann

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Walking back to happiness A

fter centuries of being considered a poor man’s mode of transport it appears the good old Shanks’ pony is a very valuable asset indeed.

In the 18th century Scotland when a person was unable to hitch a ride on a horse or carriage they were usually forced to rely on their own legs, or shanks, as the only mode of transport. Walking long distances was often a necessity of life - now it’s a hobby and a very lucrative one at that.

Every year thousands of people travel by air, sea or road to Scotland just to walk.

Whether it’s wandering on one of 26 long-distance routes or bagging one of the country’s 282 impressive Munros, Scotland is renowned for its memorable walking opportunities.

New research has revealed the market for walking holidays days out tramping the hills, glens and

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Photo by Lecored1

forest trails now generates up to £1.26 billion a year to the Scottish economy.

Recently released figures show that in 2015, 4 million trips by visitors from the UK included walking as an activity, with figures broken down into short walks of up to two miles and long walks of over two 2 miles.

The latter increased by almost a fifth (18 per cent) on the previous year.

From the West Highland Way to the Great Glen Way, the Hebridean Way to the John Muir Way, Scotland is famed for its long-distance walking routes, many of which pass through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes.

owners. In 2015, as measured by the Visitor Attraction Monitor, Strathclyde Country Park in Motherwell emerged as the most popular outdoor attraction welcoming more than 5.4 million visitors, while Rouken Glen Park in Giffnock enjoyed impressive yearly growth, increasing visitor numbers between 2014-2015 by more than a fifth.

famous for its stunning scenery and there is no better way to enjoy it than on foot. Scotland is an extremely accessible destination. The Walkers Welcome scheme and the Right to Access policy make it incredibly easy for outdoor enthusiasts to travel around the country,” said Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland Chief Executive.

Walking also emerged as one of the most popular activity pages on the VisitScotland website, with ‘munrobagging’ viewed on average 68 times per day in 2016.

“The growing interest in health and wellbeing presents a fantastic opportunity for Scotland to promote itself, not only through its inspiring landscapes but also through the health benefits of walking and being outdoors. VisitScotland continues to work with communities to showcase the rich assets, hidden gems and local stories in every region in Scotland.”

Walking was most popular with those aged 55-64 but millennials made up over a quarter (26 per cent) of visitors participating in long walks.

With a growing interest in health and wellbeing, the national tourism organisation believes walking as part of a holiday could become even more popular in 2017. Walking has long been considered as an ideal antidote for stress and a benefit for treating other physical and mental ailments.

The country is also known for its many country parks which are a popular draw for families and dog

“From the West Highland Way and the Cairngorms, to country parks and city-based strolls, Scotland is

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To celebrate the country’s walking routes, VisitScotland has created a special video offering an exclusive bird’s eye view of the breathtaking landscapes visitors can enjoy when walking in Scotland. A Unique

Photo by Miles Away

Photo by Dave Souza - Glen Coe

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Perspective - Walking in Scotland was shot in the Cairngorms around Aviemore and includes views of the Green Lochan, Ruthven Barracks, the Highland Folk Museum, Loch Morlich and Loch an Eilein.

Walking many of Scotland’s burgeoning network of long-distance footpaths, which stretch for more than 1,700 miles, is like stepping back in time.

Spectacular scenery remote from the constant hum of traffic and air so fresh it invigorates the senses are just some of the delights on offer in a country with a spectacular rural landscape regarded as one of the quietest in Europe.

Routes such the 34-mile long Three Lochs Way, linking the communities of Balloch at the head of Loch

Photo by Gerry McCann

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Lomond with Cardross, Helensburgh, Garelochhead, Arrochar and Inverlugas, are typical of those bringing health and economic benefits to visitors and locals.

Although challenging in places, the route provides outstanding views of Loch Lomond, the Firth of Clyde, Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps as it skirts around the edge of Scotland’s first national park.

Rarely rising above 250 metres, the route can easily be walked in three to four days with plenty of local accommodation providers along the way. There are also at least five railway stations situated along the route on the West Highland line ensuring easy access to various sections of the path for people seeking shorter day walks.

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Photo by Gerry McCann

Thousands of pounds have been spent on upgrading phase one of the route, including the erection of new signposts and the publication of a guide book.

John Urquhart of Helensburgh & District Access Trust, which was instrumental in getting the route

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opened, said it had taken several years of dogged determination and hard work but it had been worth it.

“It starts at Balloch, makes its way across the Hill to Helensburgh and then through Glen Fruin with a link down to Garelochhead and then north up Loch Long side, which is

one of the most scenic sections of the route,” he said.

“The route is now recognised as one of Scotland’s great trails and is attracting people from across the UK and abroad.”

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Date 4 ur diary

Scotland

27 July - 27 August Edinburgh Art Festival The UK’s largest annual festival of visual art bringing together the capital’s leading galleries, museums and artist-run spaces. https://edinburghartfestival.com 28 July - 5 August Aberdeen International Youth Festival 17 Belmont Street, Aberdeen A multi- arts event which includes a wide range of artforms including dance, theatre, opera and contemporary, jazz, classical and traditional music. http://www.aiyf.org 29 July - 12 August Aboyne and Deeside Festival Aboyne, Aberdeenshire An annual arts festival in Royal Deeside with a broad range of events covering classical, folk, jazz and contemporary music, thought, drama, literature and workshops. http://www.aboyneanddeesidefestival.org.uk 2-3 August Black Isle Show Mannsfield Showground, Muir of Ord, Highland, IV6 7RS The Black Isle Show is the largest agricultural show in the north, and it’s a great day out for all the family too. http://blackisleshow.com 2 August Wigtown Show Wigtown, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 9AB Something for everyone at Wigtown Show, including all cattle classes, light horses and dog show, a full entertainment programme with the UK’s number one Monster Truck Team and Heavy Horse Driving competitions. http://wigtownshow.org.uk 2 August Killin International Highland Games Killin, Perthshire, FK21 8SN Traditional Highland games for all the family. http://www.killingames.co.uk 3 August Stewartry Show Greenlaw, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PW A great day out for all the Family with so much going on. http://www.stewartryshow.co.uk

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If you have a future event you would like included in our diary please email details to news@scotlandcorrespondent.com 4-5 August Perth Agricultural Show Perth, Scotland, UK The 155th annual Perth Show promising an agricultural, equestrian, food and fun extravaganza. https://www.perthshow.co.uk 4-5 August Highland Field Sports Fair Moy, Inverness-shire, IV13 7YQ The fair offers a diversity of entertainments and activities for all of the family,from crèche facilities to archery. The emphasis is on field sports activities with competitions in fly casting, gun dog handling and clay pigeon shooting. http://www.moyfieldsportsfair.co.uk 4 August Dornoch Highland Gathering Dornoch, Ross-shire, Scotland, UK A day when old friends meet and new acquaintances are made, featuring piping, Highland dancing, heavy events, athletics and family amusements. http://www.dornochhighlandgathering.com 4-13 August Ballater Victoria Week Ballater, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5NE Initiated in 1987 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s accession Victoria Week brings together numerous sections of the community to lay on a host of fun activities for all ages. http://www.ballatervictoriaweek.co.uk 4-6 August Foodies Festival Arboretum Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5NY The UK’s biggest food festival, returns to Edinburgh to kick start the city’s annual summer celebrations. http://foodiesfestival.com/edinburgh-food-festival/ 4-28 August Edinburgh Festival Fringe 180 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1QS 2017 marks the 70th anniversary of the biggest arts festival in the world and the largest platform on earth for creative freedom. https://www.edfringe.com 4-26 August The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Edinburgh, Scotland, UK An unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance. https://www.edintattoo.co.uk

4-28 August Edinburgh International Festival 248 Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NE Some of the finest creators and performers from the worlds of theatre, music, opera and dance to offer a unique experience for audiences. https://www.eif.co.uk 5 August The Berwickshire County Show Duns Castle Estate, Duns, Scottish Borders, An agricultural livestock show along with family entertainment, horse events, poultry show, vintage display and dog show, created on a beautiful site next to Duns Castle. http://www.berwickshirecountyshow.org.uk 5 August Dumfries and Lockerbie Agricultural Show Park Farm, Dumfries One of the largest one-day agricultural shows in Scotland.Entertainment this year includes James Dylan’s Stuntworld Motorcycle Stunt Show, vintage machinery, Daffy Dill and Douglas the Clown. http://www.dumfriesshow.co.uk 5 August Fort Con Fort William The Fort William Comic Con & Expo - Fort Con www.fortcon.co.uk 5-6 August Rough Runner Scotland - Saturday Queensferry, Edinburgh, EH30 9SL Rough Runner is all about teamwork, fun, and incredible, unique obstacles. http://roughrunner.com/events/scotland-aug-2017/

Scottish culture in one of the most scenic parts of Aberdeenshire. http://www.aboynegames.com 5 August North Berwick International Highland Games North Berwick, East Lothian Traditional Highland games attracting spectators and contestants from around the world. http://www.northberwickhighlandgames.org 5 August Dundonald Highland Games Winehouse Yett, Dundonald One of Ayrshire’s premier cultural events. It is unique in capturing traditional Scottish heritage and strong community spirit within the picturesque setting of Royal Dundonald Castle. http://www.dundonald-games.org.uk 5 August Inverkeithing Highland Games Inverkeithing, Dunfermline Games of sorts have been a feature of life in Inverkeithing for many years, linked to the Royal Burgh’s Lammas Fair Celebrations, described in the Burgh records of 1652 as “…a great day for fun, frolic, fit races, ale and drunken folks, gentle and simple” http://inverkeithinghighlandgames.com 5 August Lauder Common Riding Lauder One of the original Border Common Ridings and there is a reference to a ceremony in Town Council minutes of 1686. http://returntotheridings.co.uk/lauder-common-riding/

5-13 August Pittenweem Arts Festival Pittenweem A celebration of the visual arts taking place in galleries homes studios and other venues throughout Pittenweem. http://www.pittenweemartsfestival.co.uk

6-7 August Keith Show Keith, Banffshire, AB55 5AJ Keith Show has been entertaining the North East of Scotland since the 1870’s having replaced the “Simmereve Fayre”, which dates back to the 1700’s. http://www.keithshow.org.uk

5-6 August Arbroath Seafest Shore, Arbroath, Angus an annual festival of the Sea held along Arbroath’s seafront and centring around the town’s charming harbour and new marina. A popular celebration of Arbroath’s marvellous maritime heritage. http://www.arbroathseafest.co.uk

6 August Bridge of Allan Highland Games Games Park, Bridge of Allan, Stirling Colourful pipe bands, elegant highland dancers, huge strongmen tossing the caber. A multitude of other events, stalls and entertainments spread out in a picturesque and historic setting. http://bofagames.com

5 August0 Aboyne Highland Games Aboyne, Aberdeenshire Now in its 150th year, the Aboyne Games have attracted thousands of visitors to witness the yearly show of

7-12 August World Goldpanning Championships Moffat The 41st World Gold Panning Championships will take place in the beautiful town of Moffat http://www.moffatgold2017.com

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Date 4 ur diary

7-13 August Shetland Boat Week Lerwick, Shetland Shetland Boat Week is an opportunity to showcase maritime heritage and see how modern ships compare with those of a previous generation. https://www.shetlandmuseumandarchives.org.uk/ community/boat-week

7-13 August Piping Live! Glasgow’s International Piping Festival Glasgow A week long piping event that makes Glasgow the centre of the world stage for piping brilliance. Its exciting and challenging, traditional and contemporary. https://pipinglive.co.uk 9 August Skye Highland Games The Meall, Portree, Skye, Scotland, UK The Skye Highland Games have taken place every year since 1877. The Games consist of Heavy Field Events, Athletics, Piping and Highland Dancing. http://www.skye-highland-games.co.uk 10 August Islay Show Bridgend, Islay The Islay, Jura and Colonsay Agricultural Show held its very first meeting on the last day of July in 1838.

Agricultural show with fun for all the family. http://www.islayshow.co.uk 10 August Ballater Highland Games Ballater, Aberdeenshire Many famous athletes and champions have competed at Ballater. Today the events form part of the circuits comprising the Glenfiddich Heavy Events Championship and the Grampian Games Qualifying Championship, which encourages the younger athletes to participate in the heavy and field events. http://www.ballaterhighlandgames.com 11-12 August World Pipe Band Championships Greendyke Street, Glasgow The World Pipe Band Championships are a unique celebration of Scottish culture featuring outstanding musicians who have practised for years to reach the pinnacle of Pipe Band competition. http://www.theworlds.co.uk/Pages/home.aspx 11-12 August Atholl and Breadalbane Highland Gathering Aberfeldy, Perthshire

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If you have a future event you would like included in our diary please email details to news@scotlandcorrespondent.com In August each year the lovely little Highland Perthshire town of Aberfeldy comes alive with The Atholl & Breadalbane Agricultural Show and Highland Gathering. http://www.aberfeldyshowandgames.co.uk 11 August Assynt Highland Games Lochinver, Sutherland Each summer the North-West Highland fishing village of Lochinver hosts the Assynt Highland Games. Also known as the ‘Friendly Games’, these provide a fun day for all the family. http://assynthighlandgames.com 12 August Orkney County Show Kirkwall, Orkney A fantastic opportunity to see some of Orkney’s quality livestock for which the island is renowned and the most important date in the Orkney calendar. http://www.orkneycountyshow.co.uk 12 August Kinross Show 70 Whitecraigs, Kinross, Perth & Kinross Kinross Show is a great day out for all ages and interests.

From the bouncy castle, fun rides and children’s education marquee to the trade stands, flower show, dog show, sheep, cattle, goats and horses there is plenty on offer. https://kinross-show.co.uk 12 August Mid-Argyll Show Kilmory, Lochgilphead, Argyll The Mid-Argyll Agricultural Show is a major event.

Hundreds of exhibitors enter competitions in Baking, Produce, Crafts, Flowers and Vegetables as well as the Dog and Livestock classes. http://www.mid-argyllshow.co.uk 12-28 August Edinburgh International Book Festival 5 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh The largest public celebration of the written word in the world. Around 1000 writers and thinkers from across the planet get together to rub shoulders with the public. https://www.edbookfest.co.uk 12-13 August Carnival Fifty Six Dundee Scotland’s newest music festival with five music areas home to some of the biggest names in music, big names DJs and some of Scotland best homegrown talent. http://www.carnivalfiftysix.co.uk

12-13 August Party at The Palace Kirkgate, Linlithgow, West Lothian Only 20 mins from Edinburgh and 35mins from Glasgow one of the most easily accessible music festivals in Scotland is back with a host of big names. http://www.partyatthepalace.co.uk 13 August Perth Highland Games Perth, Scotland Perth Highland Games is one of the most popular events in the Highland Games calendar and include traditional heavyweight events such throwing weights and hammers and tossing the caber. http://perthhighlandgames.co.uk 18-20 August Doune the Rabbit Hole Port of Menteith Doune the Rabbit Hole is an intimate, independent music & arts festival located amidst the glorious ancient oak trees of the Cardross Estate, near the Lake of Menteith, in Stirlingshire. http://dounetherabbithole.co.uk 18 August Glenisla Highland Games Glenisla, Blairgowrie A traditional Highland Games and a fun day out for all the family. http://www.glenislahighlandgames.co.uk 18-19 August Carnoustie Flower Show Carnoustie, Angus Two day Flower Show organised by the Carnoustie & District Horticultural Society. http://www.carnoustieflowershow.btck.co.uk 19-20 August Galloway Country Fair Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway Award-winning Galloway Country Fair set in the grounds of the stunning Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries and Galloway. http://www.gallowaycountryfair.co.uk 19 August Helmsdale Highland Games Helmsdale, Sutherland a fantastic day out for all the family starting with the Local Heavy Events and the Children’s Mini Highland Games. http://www.helmsdalegames.co.uk 19 August Stirling Highland Games Royal Stuart Way, Stirling The Highland Games is one of the City of Stirling’s signature annual events welcoming visitors

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from around the world. http://www.stirlinghighlandgames.com 19 August Glenfinnan Gathering and Highland Games Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire The Glenfinnan Gathering is the focus of a celebration of a way of life now long gone. For one day in a year it is almost possible to transport back in time and envisage what it must have been like on that day in August 1745 when the Prince raised his Standard. http://www.glenfinnan.org.uk/gathering.asp 19 August Nairn Highland Games Marine Road, Nairn.

The Nairn Highland Games is the BIGGEST free Games in Scotland. http://www.nairnhighlandgames.co.uk 19 August Groove Loch Ness Loch Ness, Dores Groove Loch Ness will once again transform the world famous location into Scotland’s biggest nightclub under the stars. http://www.groovefestival.co.uk 20 August Crieff Highland Gathering Crieff, Perth A full programme of traditional Highland games competitions including The Scottish Heavyweight Championship Running, Youth Running, Cycling, Highland Dancing, Heavyweights, Light Field, and Tug o War. http://www.crieffhighlandgathering.com 24-26 August Cowal Highland Gathering Argyll Street, Dunoon With its mix of highland dancing, pipe bands, wrestling, heavy athletics, solo piping, drum majors, ceilidh, children’s entertainment, fun run and local food, there’s something for everyone at the Cowal Highland Gathering. http://www.cowalgathering.com 24 August Oban Highland Games Oban, Argyll As one of Scotland’s premier Highland Games, world class challengers from across the globe flock to Oban to do battle; heavyweights with the caber, stone or hammer, lighter athletes on the track, field and hill. http://web227.extendcp.co.uk/obangames.com/ 25-28 August Thunder in the Glens Aviemore Officially the largest Harley Davidson rally in the UK with

an ever growing number of loyal fans from all over the world. http://www.dunedinhog.com/ (S(ln24mwkkgzy4ssdpmaxtorhr))/ 26 August Lochaber Agricultural Show Torlundy, Fort William Held beneath the spectacular backdrop of Ben Nevis the show attracts around 1500 locals and visitors and is a celebration of all that rural Lochaber has to offer. http://www.lochaberagriculturalshow.co.uk 26 August Great Scottish Swim Loch Lomond, Balloch The Great Scottish Swim events are now open and with a half mile, 1 mile, 2 mile, 5k and 10k there’s something for all swimming abilities to choose from. http://www.greatrun.org/great-swim/great-scottish-swim 26-27 August Beyond Borders International Festival of Literature and Thought Innerleithen Beyond Borders Scotland is a dedicated to facilitating dialogue and international cultural exchange in an effort to promote understanding and help reduce conflict. http://www.beyondbordersscotland.com 26 August Lairg Crofters Show Lairg, Sutherland The Lairg Crofters Show is the last surviving mainland crofters show and an excellent day out with something for all the family. http://www.lairgcroftersshow.co.uk/Show/Home.html 26 August Glenurquhart Highland Gathering and Games Drumnadrochit, Inverness-shire Glenurquhart Highland Games include the traditional events performed by the heavyweight athletes – throwing weights and hammers and tossing the caber. http://www.glenurquhart-highland-games.co.uk 26 August Birnam Highland Games Dunkeld, Perthshire The Birnam Highland Games are a traditional Scottish Highland Games held amidst stunning Perthshire scenery. http://www.birnamhighlandgames.com 26 August Strathardle Highland Gathering and Games Bannerfield, Kirkmichael A traditional, friendly gathering located in beautiful Highland Perthshire, near Pitlochry, Blairgowrie & Glenshee. http://strathardlehighlandgames.org.uk

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26-27 August Edinburgh Mela Edinburgh Scotland’s biggest celebration of world music and dance. http://www.edinburgh-mela.co.uk 26 August Lonach Highland Gathering and Games Bellabeg Park, Strathdon, Aberdeenshire The Lonach Highland and Friendly Society was founded in 1823 to preserve Highland dress, support loyal, peaceful, and manly conduct among the inhabitants of Strathdon. http://www.lonach.org

Australia

17-20 August Scots in the Bush Boondooma, QLD Australia A day celebrating the contribution of the Scottish people in opening up much of Australia. www.boondoomahomestead.org.au

Canada

4-5 August The Glengarry Highland Games Maxville, ON Canada Since the first Games were held in 1948, the people of Glengarry have extended close to a million welcomes to visitors who come to see what is estimated to be one of the largest Highland Games in the world. www.glengarryhighlandgames.com 11-13 August Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games Fergus, ON Canada An annual three-day event that celebrates local Scottish heritage and features world-renowned talent and entertainment in the beautiful town of Fergus, Ontario. www.fergusscottishfestival.com

USA

4-6 August Colorado Scottish Festival August 4 - August 6 Snowmass Village, CO United States The only free Scottish Festival in Colorado, the highest Scottish Festival in the world, and the only Scottish

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Festival anywhere in the world held completely inside a village. www.scottishgames.org 5 August St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit Highland Games Livonia, MI United States The oldest continuous games in North America dedicated to preserving Scottish heritage through its arts, customs, dress, literature and national games. www.highlandgames.com.

12 August Central New York Scottish Games & Festival Liverpool, NY United States The aroma of Scottish and American Food, the skirl of pipes, the cadence of the drums, the awe of massed bands, the beauty and form of the dancers, the strength and skill of the athletes and the feeling of clanship all contribute to hours of nostalgia and pure enjoyment! www.cnyscottishgames.org

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