If you go down to the woods today in Fochabers, you could be in for a surprise.
For a series of unique tree sculptures have been commissioned by the Burn of Fochabers Woodlands Community Trust as part of its role to make the site accessible to all and keep it in good repair.
At the moment, there are currently three carvings installed on the woodland walk all with connections to the village.
An owl, a kingfisher and a heron with salmon swimming up the tree have all been created by local chainsaw sculpture artist Garry Shand and have been the subject of delight to many children who frequent the woods.
Chairman of the Burn of Fochabers Woodland Trust George Turnbull was pleased at the popularity of the commission.
He said: “The sculptures have proved very popular with the public who use the woods on a regular basis.
“We already had a gnome carving in the woods and this proved very popular with the local kids and the kids from the adjacent Milnes Junior who use the woods with their teachers on a weekly basis.
“There was one child who actually brought presents for the gnome regularly and wanted to know if he had a name. We call him Ron.
“As the sculptures are very popular, we would hope to add a few scattered through the woods, possibly next year providing we have some funds available.”
The trust is involved in keeping the Fochabers Burn and the associated woods in good repair for the enjoyment of both locals and visitors.
In addition to the sculptures, it has also helped to resurface all the footpaths, felled diseased trees, power washed the footbridges, cut the grass, collected litter and repaired fences.
However, the group is always looking for more volunteers and at ways to fundraise to continue to improve the site.
Mr Turnbull added: “The committee are all getting on in years and we need some young blood on the board.
“We have a constant need for helpers to improve and maintain the woods for the benefit of everyone in the village and the wider public. We want new ideas as well as practical help with strimming, litter collection, etc.
“If you are interested and feel you would like to contribute, please contact us.”
