Life’s a beach for those relaxing by the River Tay.

Hopes that event may spark more interest in ‘under used’ facility

The River Tay in Perth is a “lost jewel in the crown” which, if used properly, could draw thousands more people to the Fair City, it has been claimed.

Sunday offered a possible taste of things to come as the Boating on the Tay event was held.

Scores of activities organised in and around the river included a beach complete with buckets, spades and deckchairs, along with a seaside Punch and Judy, fish and chips, and music.

And local residents flocked to enjoy boat trips, which set off from newly installed pontoons opposite the Fergusson Gallery for the Willowgate activity centre, near Friarton Bridge.

Once there, people were able to try a variety of activities, including sit-on kayaking, canoeing, raft building, stand-up paddle boarding, archery and bush craft.

One of the organisations involved in the event said the river should now become a major tourist attraction for Perth.

David Clarke, chairman of the Tay and Earn Trust, said: “It’s is an important and unique asset for Perth city but is sadly under used. It is the lost jewel in the crown for Perth.

“Developing the infrastructure along the inner Tay to improve access and attract visitors to the area is vital.”

With that in mind, Perth and Kinross Council is considering a water taxi scheme.

Taking advantage of the lure of the V&A, it would transport people to and from Dundee once the design museum is complete.

More than £700,000 has already been spent on installing the pontoons to aid boating and other water craft events.

Water tours are also being made available over the summer.

Mr Clarke added: “Some of the projects have included the development of the Willowgate riverside cafe and fishery, Willowgate activity centre, footpaths, pontoons, riverside bothies’ refurbishment and a park and ride.

“I’m delighted the activity centre is now open and it is a great resource for locals and visitors.”

It is the lost jewel in the crown for Perth

Picture: Steve MacDougall.

Pictures: Steve MacDougall. Fun at Boating on the Tay, clockwise from top: the makeshift beach in Tay Street; Hanna Akel, threeyear-old daughter Phoebe and wife Gemma Akel, from Dunfermline; a performer from Showboat Circus and a celebration of boat trips along the Tay.