Giant red stag called Hamish is new star of the motorway

Oct 23 2008 by Alistair Watson, West Lothian Courier

Giant red stag called Hamish is new star of the motorway

A GIANT red stag has become the latest roadside attraction for West Lothian motorists on the M8 motorway.

Hamish the stag was unveiled on Sunday at the Pyramids Business Park next to junction 3A in Bathgate.

Last year the Courier reported on how bosses at the business park introduced red sheep to the grassy pyramids in a bid to cheer up drivers on Scotland’s busiest motorway.

Now Hamish, created by sculptor Andy Scott for Cumbernauld galvanising firm, Highland, has taken pride of place.

Andy Scott was also responsible for the Heavy Horse which stands beside the M8 to the east of Glasgow.

After being dipped in 220 tonnes of molten zinc, Hamish then went through a process known as colour powder coating before being put in place.

Highland is the only company in Scotland that has the facilities to coat Hamish in this way.

Paul McCafferty, sales director of Highland, said: “We’ve been looking after Hamish at our head office for a number of years now, but we felt it was about time that he was spruced up and given a new lease of life.

“It’s a great piece of sculpture and it’s only right that others are allowed to enjoy and appreciate him.

“The M8 has become renowned for its art installations and the management team at the Pyramids Business Park were only too happy to allow Hamish to graze there for a while.

“He’s a bit of a wanderer so I’m not sure how long he’ll stay at the Pyramids for and I wouldn’t be surprised if he popped up somewhere else in the near future.”