Shoppers give countryside access a boost

A charity has thanked shoppers for contributing thousands of pounds towards projects aimed at improving access to the countryside around Aberfeldy.

Customers of the town’s Co-op have contributed over £5000 towards planned improvements since the Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT) persuaded the supermarket to adopt the local countryside as a‘Co-op Cause’ last year.

PKCT now intends to use the cash to complete a series of projects aimed at enhancing access including adding new signage, improving drainage and creating a new walking and cycling route between Perth and Kenmore.

Andy Barrie, PKCT’s strategic routes officer, thanked the Co-op customers for their support.

He said:“We at PKCT are incredibly grateful for the generosity of Co-op shoppers in the Aberfeldy area towards our cause to improve access to the outdoors in the area for everyone.

“No one should be denied the opportunity to enjoy the incredible countryside because of ability, so we aim to install self-closing gates, level out paths, improve drainage and more to ensure everyone can explore outdoors.

“Being outdoors is also great for physical and mental health and wellbeing, and wonders like the Birks and River Tay are certainly excellent places to enjoy nature and unwind.”