ALISON RENNIE
People have been sharing their memories of Muirshiel Country Park as it celebrates its 50th year this month.
Originally called Renfrewshire Regional Park, Muirshiel opened in June 1970 and was one of the first country parks in Scotland.
It was established by Renfrew County Council as its contribution to the European Conservation Year 1970.
The park, which stretches from Lochwinnoch to Greenock and Largs, has since welcomed millions of visitors of all ages to enjoy the rugged Renfrewshire countryside.
With the country in lockdown, in the lead up to the anniversary, staff shared old photographs of the park, most of them scanned from old film slides, on the park’s Facebook page.
Councillor Audrey Doig, chair of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park said: “We are delighted that Muirshiel Country Park has reached its 50th year.
“As one of the oldest country parks in Scotland, it has been enjoyed by countless numbers who have appreciated it’s value for health and well- being, outdoor learning and environmental education.
“Covid-19 restrictions highlight the demand, more than ever for local green spaces but because of the travel restrictions, celebrations of Muirshiel are taking place online with a wonderful collection of historic images on display.
“As our phased road to recovery continues park staff will certainly be ready to welcome old and new visitors to Muirshiel.”
Lochwinnoch man Crawford Johnstone, has fond memories of his time at the park.
He said: “Andy Christie (now of Hessilhead Wildlife Centre, Beith) came to Lochwinnoch and started at Muirshiel as head ranger.
“He and his wife Gay were looking for helpers so came to Lochwinnoch Primary School. I was 12 years old.
“Me and lots of kids spent all our free time at Muirshiel filling and lifting thousands of gravel bags, spreading them all over the woods making paths for the public and cutting down bushes and trees.
“Not everyone stayed but I was hooked and I eventually became a Ranger.
“Then in early 1970s a water park opened at Lochwinnoch on Lochlip Road so I got a move to the centre as a Ranger. I have met and worked with some amazing people at both parks.”
The area was originally Muirshiel House and Shooting Estate before it became the country park. A factsheet