A new interpretation panel was recently unveiled on a popular walking route in Castle Douglas.
The footpath between Castle Douglas and Threave Estate, which follows the route of the old railway line, was widened and improved two years ago.
It now runs from the Co-op car park to Lamb Island Wildlife Hide and also features a new wheelchair friendly section to Threave Nature Reserve at Kelton Mains and a stretch providing safe, off road access to Bridge of Dee.
The path was due to be unveiled in 2020 but the coronavirus pandemic meant it is only now that the panel has been installed near the Co-op.
A driving force for the project was volunteer and history enthusiast Alistair Livingston, who died in 2018. The panel recognises his work and his wish to provide a wheelchair friendly route from the town.
He was represented at the unveiling by children Alistair and Callum and his brother Kenny.
Callum said: “I like the sign and love the footpath. My big brother and I use it regularly, it is a fitting tribute to our dad.”
The improvement project was led by the Galloway Glens Scheme, which worked with various partners including National Trust for Scotland and Castle Douglas Development Forum.
Funding also came from NatureScot with support from the Winifred Kennedy Trust, LandTrust and the National Lottery.
Galloway Glens land management and access officer Jonathan Barrett said: “The sign recognises the legacy of the town’s railway history and the efforts of the people and organisations who made this project possible.
“The path has proved hugely popular with visitors and local folk alike and gives people the opportunity to explore the walks, history and countryside around Castle Douglas which are one of the joys of living here.”
The route is now maintained by the National Trust for Scotland Team at Threave Estate.
“I think he would have been so happy to see the path improved and being so well used.”
