Pentland Hills

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Friends of the Pentlands


We organised an ‘Access for all Event’ in mid-May which was a great success. Our aim was to provide an opportunity for those with disabilities to enjoy a day out in the Pentlands. Around 100 people took part in a variety of capacities. The major participants were Ravelrig Riding for the Disabled, the Tipphereth community from Torphin and the Threipmuir Youth Vision group. There were also a number of  wheelchair users and a group of Blind Ramblers. The various groups enjoyed different walks according to their abilities and everyone met up at Harlaw for lunch and a chat.


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We are grateful to Paths for All for providing a grant to covert ransport, refreshments and the hire of four mobility scooters. Such was the success of the event that we are already planning something similar, but over two days next year.

Sixteen participants enjoyed a bird watching walk in May and 30 of our members much enjoyed a BBQ and short walk at Hillend in June.

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Those who contribute to our project work have been particularly busy. Some further path work has been carried out in Phantom’s Cleugh, but there is more to do. Branches have been cleared at Harlaw and Bonaly and the latter provided an opportunity to enjoy two large bonfires!

We have worked closely with the Rangers at the new Local Nature Reserve at Harperrig. A fence, sleeper bridge and signposting have been installed and some burn clearance work has been carried out.

The wildflower meadow at Bavelaw has been strimmed and raked and a small team work fortnightly in the Harlaw garden. The nectar bed, which we planted in the spring, is thriving and attracting bees to a variety of plants. Now is the time of year to see damselflies by the Harlaw pond. Finally, this year the Harlaw garden has an excellent display of wild orchids.

There is much to do and even more to enjoy!

To find out more please contact Bob Paterson on 01383 417771 or at pentlandfriends@tiscali.co.uk or visit our website:www.pentlandfriends.plus.com