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Numbers increasing every year


By Staff Reporter

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Usefulnaturewalk aroundSanquhar Loch .JPG
Usefulnaturewalk aroundSanquhar Loch .JPG

NEARLY 700 people enjoyed this year's Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival.

Participant numbers increased by 138 to 662 with 93 per cent of customer evaluations confirming that the event was of 'high' or 'very high' quality.

The festival runs for 10 days over midsummer and includes a wide range of outdoor-related activities, talks and workshops, from paddle sports and cycling to running and walking.

Festival chairman Chris Muir has been thrilled to see the numbers increase year-on-year since it started as a three-day event in 2012.

He said: "Its success is down to the amazing local experts who provide the events each year. Their local knowledge and passion for what they do really shines through.

"There were 34 event-providers this year, from individuals and community groups to new social enterprises and government bodies.

"They presented the very best - and often hidden aspects - of Moray’s historical, archaeological, architectural, natural and landscape heritage."

Twenty four of the 62 events were held in the Forres area this year including: Mike Dilger: A Wild Time in Scotland - Filming Adventures with The One Show; Loch & Glen - exhibition of aerial photography; Dander in the Dunes; Heldon Hill Sunset Challenge Walk & Beach BBQ; Wildlife Tracking and Bird Language; Altye Burn Ecological Walk; Useful Nature Foraging Walk; Arboretum Amble.

Fiona Maver enjoyed taking part in a number of the excursions and will be returning.

She said: "What better way to enjoy the outdoors and meet new faces than taking part in varied events to suit all! I had a fantastic time and learned so much. It’s a must for next year."

Organiser Diane Smith confirmed 80 per cent of participants promised to return next year.

She said: "The programme was made up of 50 per cent new events. We try to predict what will be popular but there is never a pattern! The regulars are always popular for example, River Findhorn- Walk on The Wild Side,Secrets of Pluscarden, Wildlife Tracking and Bird Language, and Lossiemouth World War II Coastal Defences. They sell out every year.

"The new events this year, for example, In Search of the Big Grey Man of Ben Macdui, Coastal Birds and Quines only Taste Of Trail Running Morning also sold out.

"Generally, nature and history events are the most popular, especially if there is cake at the end!"

Most participants came from the North East but many come from the rest of Scotland and England with a small number from mainland Europe and the USA.

"We are always on the lookout for new and exciting events to include in the programme," finished Ms Smith. "We would be delighted to hear from anyone who would be interested in hosting an event next year."

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Ben Rinnes Midsummer Sunrise Saunter.jpg
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Tales of Fly Tricksters and Shape Shifters small res.jpeg
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