Volunteers muck project
From digging drains to fixing steps and clearing forest
Almost 50 volunteers last week took part in a four-day clean-up of Callander Crags.
The initiative was organised by Stirling Council Ranger Service and Callander Heritage Society and aimed to make paths at the beauty spot more accessible and easier to walk.
Volunteers, including Trossachs and Teith councillor Martin Earl, donated their time to help with the project which took place from June 21 until June 24.
Over the the four days, the volunteers carried out a range of jobs including clearing drainage ditches, digging up blocked drains, clearing and reinstating drains embedded in the path, removing worn and damaged steps, repairing broken bridges and gathering fallen timber.
On the final day and as a thank you for their efforts, the volunteers tucked into food and drinks provided by Mhor Bread, Apple Jacks and Deli Ecosse.
Sue Mackay from Callander Heritage Society said: “The Big Crags Clean-up was great fun.
“Lots of volunteers turned out. I think the total was 47 volunteers.
“We managed to get lots done. Everyone’s happy with the end result.
“We’d like to thank Claire Bird from Stirling Council Ranger Service for all her help. Also a big thank you to Mhor Bread, the Deli and Apple Jacks.”
Councillor Earl added: “Sue did a great job of organising this work. Over the four days a lot of people turned up and worked hard, carrying out essential maintenance tasks that helps keep this popular walk accessible.
“The council’s ranger service has been very helpful and supported Sue’s efforts to ensure this project was a great success.”
The event was, however, not without drama.
The Observer reported last week how mountain rescue volunteers were called out to search for one volunteer who got lost on Wednesday afternoon , June 21.
As the clean up was underway the party became concerned about three helpers who had become separated from the larger group.
After a quick hunt they found two of them but one man, in his sixties, was still missing.
Police were then called and officers contacted Killin Mountain Rescue Team for assistance.
The man, from the Glasgow area, was found safe and well near to Bracklinn Falls around an hour and a half later.