Binoculars afford an even more stunning view
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VISITORS to a local landmark have a better view of the surrounding landscape thanks to a new installation.
Those who manage to conquer the steps up to the top of Nelson’s Tower - now open from 2-4pm until the end of September - are now able to get a closer look into the distance after a viewing platform supporting a set of binoculars was installed.
The new attraction was created following a collaboration between building custodians Forres Heritage Trust (FHT), Forres Events Limited who donated the binoculars, and AJ Engineering who designed and fabricated the platform which will enable people to get an even better view out across the turrets.
FHT chairman George Alexander is delighted the binoculars and platform are in place for the start of the new opening season.
He said: "The view from the top is tremendous and now visitors are going to have an even more spectacular experience. This is a great asset to us and it’s good that everything is in place for the start of the busy tourist season."
Nelson’s Tower officially opened to the public at the start of the month, however, FHT is hosting a free family fun day on April 20 from 11am-3pm.
Mr Alexander explained: “The tower and its surroundings of Cluny Hill and Grant Park are a great day out and we want to attract more families to the monument. The fun day which will include a face painter, bouncy castle, crafts where children can make their own crowns, swords and shields, and instead of an Easter egg hunt, we will have a cannonball hunt! We also hope people will enjoy the climb up the tower and for those that manage it, there is a new certificate which doubles up as a colouring sheet.”
FHT also cares for Forres Tolbooth which is being renovated ahead of a new visitor attraction.
"Both the tower and the Tolbooth are a huge part of the town’s history, so it’s important they are maintained," added Mr Alexander. "We have had an army of volunteers working on the Tolbooth, particularly in the courtroom and it’s really looking splendid."
The Tolbooth is becoming more regularly used as a venue and FHT plan to host more events there including a whisky nosing and tasting as part of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival on May 2, photographic displays and live music to help raise funds for maintenance.
