Biannual Dava Ghost Train Walk from Grantown-on-Spey to Forres organised by Dava Way Association to return on June 24
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IT’S time to charge head torches and dig out walking boots for a fundraising challenge with a supernatural twist.
The biannual Dava Ghost Train Walk from Grantown-on-Spey to Forres makes a welcome return following the covid pandemic - over 100 thrill seekers will follow the 24 mile route route on the night of June 24/25 to raise vital cash for the Dava Way Association (DWA).
DWA secretary Malcolm Campbell confirmed the group formed in 1997 to create and maintain the path along the trackbed of the old Highland Railway Line that was closed in 1965.
DWA volunteers turn out for planned work parties every month. The majority of the funds required to maintain and improve the route comes from donations and grants.
Malcolm said: “All maintenance is carried out by volunteers, many of whom contribute cash as well as their time. Maintaining and improving the Dava Way is a never-ending task, much like painting the Forth Bridge! We need support. This year’s funds will go towards general maintenance and a new ramp at Dallas Dhu Distillery, the cost of which could exceed £100,000.”
So far, there have been five Ghost Train Walks since the first in 2009. They take around eight hours, including stops. The weather effects the degree of difficulty through the remote countryside.
Malcolm said: “On a scale of 1-10 it’s a seven for those new to walking but a three for experienced hikers. Everyone should have a mobile phone, footwear for walking and waterproofs, just in case. There are no steep climbs and the surface is generally good.”
Any reasonably fit adult should be able to finish but for those who cannot, there is emergency transport. Community Offroad Transport Action Group will provide safety, communications support and ferrying of first aiders.
The event starts in Roysvale Park where participants check in and climb aboard the coach to Grantown in time to catch the ‘Ghost Train Special’ at 10pm on Saturday, June 24 for the walk over the Dava Moor to the Summit sign and a long descent to Forres.
Tea/coffee/soft drinks and shortbread/biscuits will be served by 1st Forres Scouts at the old station at Dava.
Darkness falls while crossing the moor, passing the Half Way Hut and descending into the Bantrach Woods.
Walkers cross the viaduct over the Divie River then reach Dunphail Station to be met by 1st Forres Scouts and DWA volunteers for a breakfast roll, refreshments and rest in Edinkillie Hall.
“Walking over the moor at night in mid-summer is a magical experience,” said Malcolm. “The light never really leaves the sky as the sun is only just below the horizon. Dawn breaks as you walk on through the forest and over the high Rafford embankment to reach Dallas Dhu Distillery where all finishers are presented with a medal.”
Participants are warned to expect the odd spooky train whistle or apparition.
Malcolm said: “There are stories of locals hearing a ghost train and we distribute a sheet with the various ghost stories that have been collected.
“Walkers are almost certain to hear and, perhaps, even have ghostly encounters.”
Tickets cost £30 but participants who agree to raise at least £60 for the DWA can apply for a reduced fee of £15. Numbers will be limited for safety reasons. Book via https://davaway.org.uk/the-ghost-train-walk/.
