Highland mountain bikers have picked up spades to repair a badly eroded mountain path which they regularly use.
A dozen mountain bikers in Wester Ross helped fix the 1.6mile trail between Coulags and Annat, which is popular with both hill walkers and bikers, after it was damaged in last year’s storms.
Developing Mountain Biking Scotland was promoting a national Take Care of your Trails Weekend and Highland Council’s access officer, Phil Waite, decided to engage the bikers and enlist the help of an upland path manager from The National Trust.
Drains and water bars along the path had become choked with soil and stones and water was running along the path and washing deepening gullies into it. These have now been cleared out and the water is being directed off the path to prevent further damage.
Leading the group of 12 bikers on Saturday was Alex Glasgow from Plockton.
He said: “We were keen to put something back and try to ensure the path didn’t erode further, not only for our benefit but for the landowner and walkers.”
Mr Waite said: “The work was carried out in typical West coast spring weather which turned from sun to snow as the glorious weather of last week deserted us.
“Everyone who took part enjoyed the day, with many getting a better understanding of how the paths are built, which all helps towards responsible riding of the trails. There were promises of future Trail Repair days, so if anyone is interested in joining in please get in touch.”
Anyone interested should e-mail Philip.waite@highland.gov.uk or Greame.MacLean@scottishcycling.org.uk