Path traces footsteps of Rob Roy

Rob Roy MacGregor was reputed to know safe routes across the bog

A new path is to be built across the largest remaining area of lowland raised bog in the UK.

Rob Roy MacGregor was reputed to be one of the few people in his time who knew safe routes across the peat bog at Flanders Moss, west of Stirling.

The 900m path across the water-logged ditches and peat will allow more people to enjoy the nature reserve.

The area is a haven for wildlife, such as the strange insect-eating sundew, and a host of birds and insects.

Part of the path is a specially constructed boardwalk which sits on the bog surface. It will be made of recycled plastic instead of wood to make it last longer.

'Dry feet'

The work is being funded by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Lomond and Rural Stirling Leader.

David Pickett, SNH Reserves Manager, said: "Getting people out on to Flanders has always been difficult as it is criss-crossed by deep water-filled ditches and the waterlogged peat is fragile and easily damaged.

"Rob Roy was reputedly one of the only people in his time to be able to find his way through the hazardous boggy ground.

"Our new path will allow visitors to walk safely across the bog, like Rob Roy, with the added bonus of keeping their feet dry!"