Rangers’ get an appetite for the outdoors

People with culinary interests in natural plants are being invited to join a guided walk in beautiful Reeling Glen near Inverness and Beauly on Friday 9th May, from 2 till 5pm.

‘Precious Plants’ is a joint event between The Highland Council and Forestry Commission Scotland. The walk is being led by Corinne Hambly, Highland Council’s Countryside Ranger and Shona Amos, Forestry Commission Scotland Ranger who will be looking for useful and edible native plants.

After walking through the glen, participants are invited to visit nearby Moniack Castle Wineries to sample some gastronomic delights made from local natural ingredients.

Corinne Hambly said: “Shona and I both love Reelig Glen where the plant life is really special. We hope to introduce people to the idea of adding local natural tastes to their food and how better to complement this with a tasting session at Moniack Castle Wineries!”

Councillor Drew Hendry, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Planning, Environment and Development Committee said: “Expert advice is essential for identifying the edible plants that are all around us. This event is a great way to introduce your taste buds to local produce and sample from nature’s larder. The walk also supports local business in the area so I am sure it will be a real success.”

Anyone wishing to attend the 2km walk and visit to Moniack Castle Wineries should meet at 2pm at Reelig Glen car park and come prepared for the weather. The wood is sign-posted from the A862 Inverness to Beauly road and is 2 miles east of Beauly.

Reelig Glen is old woodland with a mixture of conifer and broadleaved trees. The glen is home to Britain’s tallest tree, a Douglas Fir named “Dughall Mor” which well over 100 years old with an average height of 160 - 170 feet, around 50 metres. Forestry Commission Scotland has way marked trails throughout the wood.

The Highland Council Countryside Rangers are a partnership between The Highland Council and Scottish Natural Heritage with the aim of promoting public enjoyment and appreciation of the countryside and conserving wildlife.

For further information please contact: Corinne Hambly, Countryside Ranger Inverness West, The Highland Council, Planning and Development Service, North Tower, Inverness Castle, Inverness tel: 01463 710786 e-mail: corinne.hambly@highland.gov.uk