tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10895962765388675732012-02-14T13:48:20.530Z"The spirit was aloft, I was pulling on my boots" - W H Murray, Mountaineering in Scotlandafootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.comBlogger1451100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-32449939120655572742012-02-12T13:04:00.057Z2012-02-13T09:07:03.038Z

Simply Hike Camping Equipment and Outdoor Clothing have sent me this fleece to review. Arrangements were finalised on Thursday and the product delivered on Friday but, as yet, I haven't had a chance to wear it other than indoors. Once I've used it for a couple of weeks I'll add to my first impressions given below.  This fleece is part of the Advanced Thermals (AT) range which is a "

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-49982750659230653802012-02-10T19:31:00.001Z2012-02-10T19:31:56.707Z

Test Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-68101011599089676972012-02-08T10:47:00.000Z2012-02-08T10:47:55.650Z

I'm thinking of blogging on our way across Scotland later this year but note that the Bloggermobile page says that only O2 and Orange are supported in the UK. I plan to post by email. I'm fairly sure I've seen posts with 'iphone or Blackberry at Vodafone' at the end of posts from mobiles but can't find them now! Is there anyone out there using Vodafone? I'd rather use this because the coverage

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-5901072520526169742012-02-01T13:58:00.059Z2012-02-03T13:59:17.884Z

14th January – Part of the Cadgers’ Yett. A day of low cloud when layers were on and off at an irritating rate, except for my ME Astron hooded jacket (worn here) which has not disappointed. When I bought it I really envisaged wearing it from early spring to late autumn but it's proved to be very useful and flexible in the conditions we've had so far this winter. And, dare I say, I wouldn't be

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-51443610064050824532012-01-31T16:06:00.008Z2012-02-13T20:38:40.961Z

I’m trying to keep this blog up to date, mainly as some sort of record of days out (but not necessarily in order done) so you are unlikely to find much new of interest for the moment! I finished the previous post by writing “In the meantime a pleasant and familiar circuit - in more sun and snow – awaits”, but the ‘sun’ bit proved over-optimistic. Not my fault – blame the weather forecasters. It

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-38014089180305523992012-01-30T10:23:00.011Z2012-02-03T14:03:49.447Z

The weather was gloomy but the forecast was for bright sunshine in the ‘afternoon’. By mid-day it was getting worse. Wind, rain and low cloud have been ever-present companions on the hills during January and now the first real snow of the year was tagging along. That was welcome. There should be snow in winter. After a brief discussion on the summit of Wether Hill we dropped down towards

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-26291462555463372882012-01-24T15:50:00.002Z2012-01-24T16:27:54.507Z

Please read this urgent appeal on Martin's Banfield's blog here I do hope he is found safe and well.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-70821717320445062352012-01-18T21:46:00.011Z2012-01-18T21:51:40.720Z

This will be interesting - see article here.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-6163708402848676112012-01-17T15:47:00.004Z2012-01-17T22:04:21.823Z

Highland council have voted 9-3 against the construction of the Allt Duine windfarm. Fantastic - but what will Mr Salmond do now I wonder.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-12337400517447193412012-01-13T14:37:00.005Z2012-01-13T22:10:59.423Z

The weather leading up to Christmas was dire, to say the least. We escaped storm damage and power cuts but days on hills were few. A short trip on the 29 December to an anonymous little hill above Glen Eagles gave the usual mixture of rain, snow and strong winds with a brief glimpse of blue skies as below.  With the exception of yesterday January has been little better, although we did get our

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-64554747088870755922011-12-19T16:17:00.000Z2011-12-19T16:17:14.208Z

Thanks to everyone who has visited and commented (or not) throughout 2011. Have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy your hills of 2012 wherever they may be.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-61922221939715141582011-12-09T08:42:00.000Z2011-12-09T08:42:27.669Z

How often have you wanted to see this Mr Sloman? All turbines had been turned off because of storm force winds. Sensible policy Mr Salmond's pursuing then. Houses had to be evacuated after the turbine brake system failed and the blades 'free-wheeled'. It appears the turbine couldn't cope with gusts of 50mph. Source: BBC Scotland News

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-65547635869877422042011-12-04T17:55:00.000Z2011-12-04T17:55:40.416Z

I posted  this many months ago but think it's worth a re-run. It has a happy ending so relax!

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-14407749420555579652011-12-04T10:21:00.001Z2011-12-04T10:22:54.317Z

Posted for no other reason than to note the event! And more has fallen since this was taken.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-88902312472051858082011-11-30T09:39:00.001Z2011-11-30T09:40:46.142Z

This was the scene around here on 29 November 2010. By contrast only some wet snow is evident in the garden this morning, although the Ochils had their first sprinkling a few weeks ago. It’s been a wet and very windy November and I hope the above conditions come quickly in December. There are a few photographs taken last December here

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-80528507186789063992011-11-27T11:12:00.004Z2011-11-27T13:06:55.097Z

QDanT  has given me this link which is worth reading.  http://toryaardvark.com/2011/11/17/14000-abandoned-wind-turbines-in-the-usa/ Edit: I should have said that there is some controversy about the source of the information presented.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-75395645470270783122011-11-24T10:31:00.000Z2011-11-24T10:31:57.953Z

The Scottish government has given approval for SSE’s 33-turbine wind power station, 3 miles south of the village of Strathy in Sutherland. The Highland Council had already approved the plans despite 166 letters of objection and only eight in support. The RSPB has condemned the decision since it could affect protected species – Golden Eagle and hen harrier populations nest nearby; black and

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-54359633146311642272011-11-11T10:22:00.005Z2011-11-11T11:26:02.437Z

The above conference is being organised by CATS, Communities Against Turbines Scotland. A report can be found here.  More encouraging news.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-60978711815055212912011-11-10T19:42:00.002Z2011-11-10T19:43:56.617Z

Many thanks for your enthusiastic comments and good wishes. What a supportive and lovely lot you are! Lynne

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-22086936644842863862011-11-09T10:06:00.001Z2011-11-09T10:07:21.262Z

 Lynne will be at Waterstone's in Perth on 10 December from 12 noon onwards signing copies of her book.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-44648521444425007822011-11-08T20:16:00.001Z2011-11-09T10:05:34.522Z

We heard the helicopter before we saw it, but knew from the engine noise that it was not from the type that whisks the wealthy from Edinburgh Airport to Gleneagles Hotel. Alas, neither was it a helicopter gunship on a mission to destroy the Burnfoot wind power station! Unfortunately, the quality of the uploaded video is poorer than the original.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-61608451173510284262011-11-07T16:06:00.001Z2011-11-07T16:07:35.064Z

See why here. Lock them up and throw away the key. B******s.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-78740440584832108542011-11-05T07:09:00.000Z2011-11-05T07:09:44.271Z

Something to lift the spirits I think - here

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-80988942473635598132011-11-04T09:07:00.001Z2011-11-04T09:08:56.146Z

A brief BBC report can be found here. Could the tide be turning? 

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-11161618836164366362011-11-03T11:32:00.003Z2011-11-03T11:34:09.420Z

Anyone know what this might be? We saw a small amount of this jelly-like substance on the road near the fish farm and thought it was related to processes carried out there, but this picture is taken well up the hill. The fact that it's next to a wooden post is irrelevant.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-84521919084298313732011-10-27T08:12:00.000+01:002011-10-27T08:12:16.680+01:00

'Hen harriers 'scupper' wind farm'. Article here Excellent news.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-4582420431240338722011-10-26T10:10:00.002+01:002011-10-27T08:12:51.887+01:00

Plans to mine for gold at Cononish have been approved by Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. Would this be approved in the Lake District today? You can read the article  here Anyone thinking of climbing Ben Lui had better get it done soon unless they like to view spoil heaps en route.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-77640676282554233862011-10-07T14:05:00.008+01:002011-10-07T17:25:47.176+01:00

Creag Leacach from Meall Odhar Glen Clunie seemed busy for a Monday with folk heading for Munros such as An Socach, Carn an Tuirc and Cairn of Claise. A local holiday for the Aberdeen area it turned out. We drove on to the large ski car park at around 670m and had it almost to ourselves. I have mixed feelings about ski developments in Scotland. Lynne and I skied regularly throughout the 1980s

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-79907571416340294402011-10-05T17:41:00.006+01:002011-10-07T09:10:11.603+01:00

  As we crossed the moss and soft turf of the Glas Maol plateau we came across several of these structures. I think they are a form of ‘quadrats’ used to sample and study, in this case, the montane vegetation. If anyone knows anything different, I’ll be happy to hear from you. Also, after our descent to the col on the way to Creag Leacach we came across a small howff which in the best

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-4240421219348882302011-10-04T10:07:00.001+01:002011-10-07T09:10:30.302+01:00

Another snippet while I organise myself for our next foray north. (well, Lynne organises me/us really. I just label the pics we've taken!). From Carn na Drochaide to the slopes of Sron nan Gabhar.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-42671545284857993452011-10-03T20:29:00.001+01:002011-10-07T09:09:14.357+01:00

This should be easy for any Challengers who visit this blog! Just back from another trip, so more later.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-37627501413145992682011-09-24T20:52:00.001+01:002011-09-24T20:52:21.550+01:00

Hares near the summit of Cairn of Claise On our last holiday, one delightful feature was the number of mountain hares we saw everywhere on the high ground. They were brown rather than the 'bluish grey' which gives them their alternative name, but colours are known to vary widely. As winter approaches and the first snows arrive, they will change to pure white. We were enchanted by them. They were

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-3965136138273003352011-09-24T10:59:00.002+01:002011-09-24T11:43:19.144+01:00

I don’t like modern signage in the Scottish hills – waymarks, and the like. I do like old signs like this one. Ancient ways through and, in this case, over the hills. They stir the imagination. Incidentally, ‘Glenisla’ should be two words ‘Glen Isla’. There are no rock climbs in Glencoe, the village, many in Glen Coe. And the 'Glenshee' (Glen Shee) ski centre is wholly in Glen Clunie!

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-10053291797943509152011-09-21T15:45:00.004+01:002011-09-21T17:53:07.463+01:00

In the early 1980s the Cairngorm Chairlift Company proposed extending lifts into Lurcher's Gully. The Public Enquiry received 7120 letters of objection and 135 supporting the proposal. The proposal was rejected. By contrast, to date, only a mere 657 people  have signed the 'savemonadhliathmountains' petition. This is pathetic! If you oppose the destruction of the wild Monadhliath sign this

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-28399735259318902612011-09-20T12:26:00.003+01:002011-09-20T12:28:37.917+01:00

 Councillors are to consider plans from Druim Ba Sustainable Energy to erect 23, 490ft turbines on forestry land between Abriachan and Kiltarlity. An Action Group has been set up to oppose the development. I wish them all the best.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-35521465160572115142011-09-19T12:56:00.003+01:002011-09-19T19:03:26.558+01:00

Traffic management plans have been finalised for the B8033 Kinbuck Road (Kinbuck is north of Dunblane) as part of the work required for the above power line. So, if anyone still harbours thoughts that the march of wind power stations across the Highlands, and not-so-highland parts of Scotland, can be halted or effectively opposed, think again. It grieves me to say so having opposed such

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-76270837032963658212011-09-15T15:19:00.001+01:002011-09-15T16:52:18.873+01:00

On what was probably the wettest and windiest day of our recently holiday, we walked up to Loch Callater to the sound of gunfire in the distance. It wasn’t hard to guess what was going on and there in the vicinity of Callater Lodge was parked around £250,000 worth of Land Rover Discos and Range Rovers (admittedly you don’t need many to reach that figure). Grouse shooting was taking place on the

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-25497202620749306262011-09-14T16:15:00.003+01:002011-09-14T16:18:43.646+01:00

The midges at the Spittal of Glenmuick car park were doing a fair imitation of their western brethern, but vanished as we made our way along the track by the loch. Broad Cairn from L Muick Lochnagar was cloud-covered but showed every sign of clearing, Broad Cairn was already clear and  looked inviting so really chose itself as the objective for today.  Shortly we came to the start of the

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-76111588990647055282011-09-13T15:18:00.000+01:002011-09-13T15:18:57.443+01:00

Just back from a nine day trip to Braemar area. It's well known to us but, inexplicably, it's years since we've been there and so it all felt very fresh. Lovely. Now getting organised for another trip away, but I’ll try to write up a few reports before then. Mobile blogging would be so much easier than writing things up when back home.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-35695035811515084782011-09-02T13:37:00.000+01:002011-09-02T13:37:28.180+01:00

The SGA has raised the question of whether a sea eagle could distinguish between its natural prey and children. The report can be found here. Oh dear, what next.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-6700650232102652882011-08-31T11:24:00.003+01:002011-08-31T17:09:53.129+01:00

Ben Nevis Nice video about Ben Nevis area on Dave MacLeod's blog here. Also video and photographs of Dave in action in Norway and Scotland. Super climbing blog.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-75940997102749198882011-08-15T11:22:00.001+01:002011-08-15T11:28:53.073+01:00

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-44314967674513848292011-08-13T12:14:00.003+01:002011-08-13T18:21:47.955+01:00

Dark Shadow/Harvest Gold I first bought a pair of these shoes in March this year and have been so pleased with them that I’ve just bought another pair from Webtogs. My first Targhee IIs were Mid boots bought in 2008 and although extremely comfortable, the eVent membrane was useless and I repeatedly had to use Super Glue to fix the grey ‘caps’ on the sole. The new KEEN.DRY membrane is much

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-17344554678370390562011-08-03T09:01:00.002+01:002011-08-03T09:13:26.795+01:00

An additional £204,000 funding for MRTs in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland has been announced by the government. This is apparently the first of four years funding with at least £200,000 available each year.Teams in England and Wales will share £128,000, Scotland will receive £68,000 and Northern Ireland £8000.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-84372607179787365452011-08-02T13:31:00.015+01:002011-08-05T13:23:10.099+01:00

The East Neuk of Fife is generally regarded as comprising the fishing villages in the most northerly part of the Firth of Forth, although the exact boundaries are somewhat vague and disputed. Characterised by their small picturesque harbours, the likes of Pittenweem, St Monans and Crail are delightful places, but despite spending my student years at St Andrews University, I never got much further

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-43656706460118051602011-07-30T18:59:00.001+01:002011-07-30T19:02:00.650+01:00

We were in Crail recently as the annual music and arts festival was getting underway. This beautiful sand scuplture rightly attracted much attention.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-11434432491854870072011-07-30T17:57:00.000+01:002011-07-30T17:57:40.758+01:00

Well, so far so good but it'll take a bit of  'tweaking' to get it right.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-80145512898123379642011-07-19T18:07:00.001+01:002011-07-30T08:19:02.288+01:00

Not been blogging recently since finding a nasty trojan downloader on the computer. I'm temporarily closing all photo albums since it seems to be uploading images and using my accounts so all these will have to be changed. All spy removers (and professionals!) have failed to get rid of it -  I'm writing this on this on  a new computer I've bought!!

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-56389878657216799562011-06-16T09:14:00.010+01:002011-07-30T16:58:29.614+01:00

Banks Renewables hopes to build a wind power station with 20 turbines near loch Lomond, a few miles east of Conic Hill, with each turbine being about 100m high. The usual bribery package will be offered to local communities if the application is approved. The company is about to submit an application for a wind monitoring mast which will establish whether the site is viable, and ecological and

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-24169612987126145002011-06-11T10:27:00.007+01:002011-07-30T20:42:25.871+01:00

Azalea as it usually flowers. Poor this year though. Taken with an old 4MP camera.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-39478071800358202502011-06-08T10:22:00.005+01:002011-07-30T08:02:01.209+01:00

Never fails to delight.                                          Click to enlarge.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-46249625524121071232011-06-01T13:32:00.000+01:002011-06-01T13:32:10.972+01:00

This post has nothing to do with hills - it's more important than that as Alan Sloman rightly says. Please, please, if you didn't watch this programme last night watch it as soon as you can on the iPlayer. Be prepared to be shocked, disgusted and very, very angry. See also Shirl's blog.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-13549638440642532732011-05-31T09:59:00.001+01:002011-05-31T15:56:03.563+01:00

Moy Estate - see post of 4 June 2010 'Moy Estate raided'. When police raided the estate last June they found an estate worker with a dead red kite which, he said, he'd found in a trap set for stoats and weasels. The bird had not been poisoned but the worker had put the bird a Land Rover and did not tell his manager, the RSPB or police. The former apprentice gamekeeper has been fined £1500 at

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-41161215150198666072011-05-30T13:13:00.004+01:002011-07-30T18:03:26.288+01:00

 Wind Prospect's Plans. Blue area - Clackmannanshire, Green - Perth and Kinross. Black dots - current turbines.  Wind Prospect which built the 13-turbine Burnfoot Wind Power Station now wish to apply to build another 22 turbines as shown on the above map. If granted, they have 'promised' that they will not submit any future applications for turbines 'in the immediate

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-44340254661586717092011-05-29T11:04:00.002+01:002011-07-30T18:03:57.872+01:00

This all seems peculiarly out of tune with the lush green of late spring.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-627372251005404872011-05-01T10:32:00.000+01:002011-05-01T10:32:53.840+01:00

Anyone know if TAC is still published? It seems to stop at 2008 online.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-40340625016176018792011-04-30T08:27:00.002+01:002011-04-30T09:45:27.089+01:00

The Government reporter has dismissed an application by Swedish company Vattenfall to erect 12 turbines at Minch Moor in the Scottish Borders on the grounds that "the landscape and visual effects make the proposed wind farm unacceptable". Some of the turbines would have been built alongside the Southern Upland Way and it has taken eight years for the issue to be resolved. Of course, the grounds

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-46382624828419386102011-04-26T11:10:00.065+01:002011-08-18T14:19:34.711+01:00

An entry in Sligachan Climber's Book begins : "10 June 1911. Traverse of Main Ridge from Gars Bheinn to Sgurr nan Gillean. This makes such an interesting expedition that a few words as to times may be useful to other parties". After nine lines "as to times", it ends: "We followed the ridge closely all the way & took all the tops of S. a Mhadaidh & all other minor points on the ridge" .   

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-60604717180353374502011-03-31T10:46:00.005+01:002011-03-31T17:43:34.910+01:00

The Cairngorm National Park Authority has said that the park's "sense of wildness" would be harmed if the proposed wind power station comprising 29 turbines at Glenkirk, near Tomatin, were to be approved. The initial application by Eurus Energy was for 34 turbines. The park's planning officers have recommended that the planning committee object to the proposal. The turbines would be visible

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-82050752072443089862011-03-16T12:12:00.005Z2011-03-16T18:04:38.575Z

Last night Lynne gave a talk at Dollar Academy, based on her new book Beatrix Potter's Scotland - Her Perthshire Inspiration', to help raise funds for Dollar Museum. We were both happy to support the Museum as did Hamish Brown a few months earlier, and have been invited to give a talk on our 'Munro Years' or some other hill-related topic in the future, which we will happily do. Talk over, Lynne

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-76167918442947634692011-03-02T12:45:00.003Z2011-03-02T12:47:55.053Z

The numbers of hen harriers in Scotland has declined by a fifth according to new research, the RSPB blaming this on illegal persecution on managed grouse moors. There are thought to be about 500 pairs in Scotland but they are near extinction in England. Estate managers claimed the accusation was unfair but Stuart Housden, RSPB Director in Scotland, claimed there was 'systematic and illegal

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-25189312683015063622011-03-02T09:32:00.002Z2011-03-02T12:58:57.546Z

I've opened a few galleries at smugmug for some friends who've asked to see some old photos, so obviously they're available for anyone to have a look. For those who visited this blog when I started it just over a year ago, there's not much that's new - just what has been requested. Note: Smugmug is better viewed with Firefox which seems to display the pics them better.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-39817370401704013622011-02-28T20:56:00.003Z2011-07-30T18:06:55.440+01:00

The 'dismal' day mentioned in a previous post had transformed itself into a sunny, but blustery one by the time we arrived at the Kirkgate car park; oyster catchers were scattered along the grassy shore and Lochleven Castle was catching the afternoon sunshine. The castle was used as a state prison (its first use) when, in 1316, King Robert the Bruce imprisoned John of Lorne

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-58004570550695620102011-02-24T10:33:00.005Z2011-07-30T18:07:51.307+01:00

 Well no. Not really. Path west to Commonedge Hill and, looking east...  The path to Seamab Hill above Muckhart Nevertheless, a happy Lynne, muscle mended, is on a summit again at last!    It's just as dismal today, so we're off for a walk round Loch Leven and thoughts of spring, not to say summer sunshine will just have to do for now.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-51430139805394023892011-02-24T08:21:00.001Z2011-02-24T08:24:16.180Z

A nineteen-turbine wind power station at Corriemollie (Loch Luichart) near Garve has been recommended for approval by Highland Council.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-64759013029847958152011-02-23T14:11:00.003Z2011-02-23T14:25:23.323Z

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Alan Sloman on David Lintern's programme yesterday evening -  not surprisingly, since my views are indistinguishable from his. Scotland's wild landscapes are stuffed, although I think Alan wanted to use a rather different word but couldn't on air! And just to drive home that fact, here's some more depressing news. Energy companies have, apparently, been given

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-49142363134472433772011-02-21T08:12:00.002Z2011-02-21T09:05:08.352Z

Information on this, and an invitation to sign a petition to keep the crossing open, can be found on the TGO Challenge Message Board .

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-28578039207284321152011-02-12T14:05:00.005Z2011-07-30T18:08:55.341+01:00

 The suspension bridge across the River Tummel   On our recent outings to Pitlochry Festival Theatre (see post 1 February) we had a bit of time to spare so wandered down to the 'Historic Hamlet' of Port na Craig on the banks of the Tummel. In the 12th century, monks from Coupar Angus were given the lands of Fonab as a gift and established a ferry here, the last crossing taking place on

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-14756814116264078162011-02-09T11:27:00.003Z2011-08-01T07:51:29.409+01:00

Garbh Bheinn, Ardgour (scanned from a slide) It appears that Mountain Rescue Teams have won the argument, in principle, that they should be able to reclaim VAT payments. Although it is against EU law to directly refund VAT, it seems the government has found a way round the problem by putting money aside to help with the teams' costs. Good news. The MRTs provide a vital service

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-59637409217550090192011-02-01T16:24:00.017Z2011-07-30T18:09:24.254+01:00

Ben Vrackie from the theatre car park Winter Words Festival is one of Scotland's leading book festivals and held every January at The Festival Theatre, Pitlochry. This year two authors on the programme caught our attention -  nature writer Jim Crumley talking about his new book The Last Wolf, and mountaineer Stephen Venables giving a lecture entitled In the Steps of

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-54399799425011186832011-01-25T08:56:00.001Z2011-01-25T09:36:29.503Z

The John Muir Trust is calling for a new national environmental designation for wild land and has submitted a 3,500 signature petition to the Scottish government amid fears that some of the best landscapes in Scotland are at risk. The JMT is particularly concerned about the impact of "badly sited, industrial scale wind farm development proposals" Scottish National Heritage does not apparently

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-62405272207123822732011-01-24T09:05:00.003Z2011-01-24T13:28:19.630Z

The JMT has spent the last 13 months monitoring 47 wind power stations and claim that they ran at 22 per cent efficiency - somewhat short of the 30 per cent figure claimed at every public enquiry into proposed stations. The JMT's figures were taken from data from the National Grid and they have called for an urgent review of the Scottish Government's renewable energy policy. Many councillors

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-86995349784917475622011-01-23T17:59:00.001Z2011-01-23T18:01:40.322Z

A 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck Glenuig this morning. No worries for TGO Challengers though - Glenuig is still there.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-31773639727173510952011-01-23T08:51:00.010Z2011-07-30T18:11:02.159+01:00

Today, and after a minimum temperature overnight of -9C, we are shrouded in a freezing fog with just occasionally the faint hope of the sun breaking through. We would be experiencing a temperature inversion if we were up on the Ochils but, alas, Lynne has managed to cough her way to a strained or torn intercostal muscle so carrying a rucksack is out for the moment. For the sake of clarity I

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-79566505176177456692011-01-21T17:57:00.004Z2011-01-21T18:30:41.476Z

Ben Cleuch summit trig (taken by my older brother) It didn't take too long to realise that to enjoy a day on the hill I needed to spend vast sums of money and carry even vaster loads.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-74401268822860372132011-01-21T07:29:00.004Z2011-01-21T07:32:43.216Z

Sent to me I'm off to search for 'cliff areas' that don't have steep drops . These discoveries will be the subject of a book in due course, but don't expect it anytime soon!

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-35783730291612935252011-01-18T14:28:00.002Z2011-07-30T20:30:30.112+01:00

The rapid thaw and torrential rain last Saturday gave the River Devon the power to demolish the army-built bridge which links the 'Millenium Path' to Rumbling Bridge Gorge. Destruction The remains further down-river I wonder how long it will take for it to be rebuilt?

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-28514221613537842622011-01-16T09:35:00.011Z2011-01-16T11:23:33.093Z

Muthill and Tullibardine Community Council have created a film to try to get the Scottish Government to underground the part of the Beauly to Denny power upgrade that passes through this beautiful part of Perthshire. They say of their video, in Strathallan News, "It is crudely put together, but we needed to act fast, and this is a sign of our passion for protecting the community from the

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-64313759807226142522011-01-11T14:25:00.004Z2011-08-01T07:53:03.364+01:00

Another interesting development. See here and go to 'More news from around Scotland' at the bottom of the page - Highlands and Islands - although it concerns Northern Ireland and Wales also. Edited: now in 'Tayside and Central' not 'Highlands and Islands'

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-38807398021078546422011-01-11T09:22:00.001Z2011-01-11T12:35:38.250Z

An article, which briefly outlines the views of the MCofS, can be found here

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-72494924928790040762010-12-24T12:03:00.002Z2011-07-30T20:29:13.203+01:00

Temperatures are still well below freezing here with minimums ranging from -15C to -10C over the last 4 nights. Snow still lies in the garden, but iron hard now. With bright blue skies and an Alpine calm, it is breathtakingly beautiful.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-7882641284778570432010-12-20T17:36:00.001Z2011-07-30T18:10:14.812+01:00

Thanks for your company during 2010.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-91619977514308795502010-12-15T13:27:00.000Z2010-12-15T13:27:03.149Z

The Scots Language Centre have posted a webcast of Lynne reading her 2004 translation into Scots of Beatrix Potter's, 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit'  - The Tale O Peter Kinnen. The reading is taken from the CD recorded by Lynne shortly after the book was published. It is read quite slowly so those unfamiliar with Scots, but who have a copy of the original book, will be able to follow easily! It can

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-48011511043660002472010-12-03T12:06:00.001Z2010-12-03T12:08:57.725Z

Multi-millionairess Sigrid Rausing, who owns Coignafearn Estate in the Monadhliath mountains, is seeking a judicial review of Highland Regional Council's decision not to oppose the proposal for a 33 turbine wind farm on neighbouring Dunmaglass Estate. (see post 26 February this year). More than 1500 people and three community councils objected. (Source: Scottish Mountaineer) The first hearing

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-17761347616368082552010-12-02T17:48:00.003Z2010-12-02T18:04:30.418Z

I'm not a football fan, but my commiserations to any readers of this blog south of the border who are!

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-15006869480561439032010-12-01T10:39:00.004Z2010-12-01T13:30:06.295Z

Two days ago and it hasn't really stopped snowing since! The tracks continued to just beyond the bushes and skis might have been useful thereafter, although ours are narrow competition style (we've never skied competitively) so the benefit would have been marginal. Anyway, we knew we had a driveway to clear so headed back just as the forecasted bitter east wind started to

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-63954564460474307222010-11-29T20:14:00.001Z2011-07-30T18:11:46.391+01:00

Here you are Martin. Maybe next year! Join you on the top if we are around. Lendrick Hill 456m from Seamab Hill (taken January 2010) 

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-20107248912024348542010-11-29T10:40:00.001Z2011-07-31T09:37:45.083+01:00

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-78767327973996149012010-11-29T08:33:00.007Z2011-07-30T20:45:39.005+01:00

I've just been out to feed the birds - they are desperate - and have measured about a foot of snow in the garden. Looks like 2010 is (almost) going out like it came in. Another 10" to fall today apparently. Waiting for breakfast Martin Banfield is stuck (or has been) at Morrisons car park in Perth but I can't even think about popping up to see him. Pity really. Hope you make it home

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-38629505833939147162010-11-12T09:52:00.008Z2010-11-29T10:04:20.901Z

Yesterday I posted good news about sea eagles. Today it's bad news, at least from my perspective. The Duke of Roxburghe has won a seven year battle to establish 48 wind trubines at Fallago Rig in the Lammermuir Hills, south of Edinburgh. He stands to earn £2.5m a year from the project. There has been fierce local opposition (supported by David Bellamy) to the turbines, but the Scottish

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-71969115662851508892010-11-11T09:33:00.001Z2010-11-29T10:02:28.399Z

It has been reported that 46 young sea eagles fledged this year in Scotland - 10 more than last year- and that there are now 52 adult pairs, up 6 on 2009. Last year one was spotted over Cumbria and Dumfries having flown from Fife. Excellent news. (see also post of 21 August 2010) However, the planned introduction of this beautiful bird in southern England has been cancelled because of budget

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-60123780835070239262010-11-10T17:58:00.002Z2010-11-29T09:59:47.782Z

It's not the first snow to fall on the hills as we approach winter, but the cover on the Ben Lawers range looked pretty enticing today. The photograph is taken using a compact digital on full zoom so quality is compromised somewhat.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-7325665479134935982010-10-18T11:37:00.003+01:002011-07-30T18:14:48.954+01:00

We've just had a lovely week based in Glen Coe. I'll post more later but, for now, here are a few photos from the trip. 

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-49706357257603483892010-08-21T08:22:00.000+01:002010-08-21T08:22:22.449+01:00

I've just heard that 19 Norwegian sea eagles have been released into the wild from a secret location in Fife. This is wonderful news and I wish them well in Scotland. This is the third phase of the reintroduction of these birds by East Scotland Sea Eagles, a partnership between RSPB Scotland, the Forestry Commission and Scottish Natural Heritage. The programme commenced in 1975 on Rum.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-47373133963605001642010-08-20T09:55:00.003+01:002010-08-21T13:33:42.973+01:00

The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority have, thankfully, refused an application by Scotgold Resources to redevelop a gold mine at Cononish, near Tyndrum.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-7380578924276169412010-08-03T10:53:00.000+01:002010-08-03T10:53:09.639+01:00

Anyone wishing to find out about the work of the above can visit their site at http://www.nevispartnership.co.uk/

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-16555570287188253712010-08-02T16:50:00.002+01:002010-08-03T11:05:14.625+01:00

The Nevis Partnertship is calling for every person who climbs Ben Nevis to contribute £1.00 to the cost of maintaining the access track. Approximately 160,000 people climb the Ben every year. Any views on this?

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-60703868574481834532010-07-17T09:22:00.001+01:002011-08-13T08:56:48.026+01:00

There were many dragonflies on our walk along Loch Morar.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-74153461456472125162010-07-16T16:11:00.003+01:002011-08-13T08:57:39.690+01:00

For anyone worrying about midges on their next backpacking trip to Scotland, but not too worried about weight, here's the very thing seen by Loch Morar:

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1089596276538867573.post-45623231714974715562010-07-13T15:40:00.003+01:002011-08-13T08:58:12.467+01:00

Reading at the launch in Ambleside It looks like a Scottish Event to 'launch' Lynne's book will take place, appropriately, in Birnam near Dunkeld in late October.

afootinthehillshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06670636358354420373noreply@blogger.com6