Historic Scotland’s weekend of events

Jan 27 2011 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

A BUSY schedule of events is set to take place in Linlithgow this weekend.

Historic Scotland’s Ranger Service at Linlithgow Peel, beside the magnificent Linlithgow Palace, are inviting volunteers from the local community to support their important conservation work by taking part in their latest volunteer day, on Saturday, January 29.

In recent years, volunteers have played a key role in a range of seasonal tasks undertaken by the Ranger Service, such as path and vegetation clearing and hedge and tree planting, as well as helping with nature surveys.

Andy Smart, of Historic Scotland’s Ranger Service, said: “The help we’ve received from volunteers of all ages from the local community at previous events has been really tremendous.

“Their practical support of our conservation work is absolutely invaluable.

“There’s a great deal of work required in maintaining the land around Linlithgow Peel and loch.

“Jobs such as cutting and clearing away dying vegetation are time-consuming but vital to encourage plant and wild flower growth, which supports the rich natural habitat for wildlife such as small mammals, birds and insects.

“Our Volunteer Day events not only enable local people who use and enjoy the peel to learn about the work of the Ranger Service but also gives them a chance to put something back into this wonderful natural resource on their doorstep, and get involved in its ongoing management.”

Volunteers don’t require any prior experience but do need to book their place in advance by calling 01506 842065.

Refreshments will be provided for volunteers on the day, who will need to be suitably dressed for working outside, in waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.

And following the Volunteer Day, there’s another special event at Linlithgow Peel on Sunday, when the Rangers are hosting the Big Loch Bird Watch.

Go along and join the Rangers in this free, fascinating event (which coincides with the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch event) and enjoy the opportunity to spot and record different species of birds, including winter migrating birds, on and around Linlithgow Loch.

There are two hour-long sessions at 10.30am and 1.30pm and again, to reserve your place, call 01506 842065.