Mountain path work to cut erosion

The path had become eroded due to the number of people using it

Work to combat erosion scars caused by visitors to one of Scotland's most famous mountains has been completed.

The Forestry Commission has refurbished the footpath which guides walkers to the peak of Ben Lomond.

About 30,000 people scale the mountain every year, with some parts of the two-metre path becoming 25-metre erosion scars as a result.

The organisation said the work would help preserve the landscape and minimise the impact of walkers.

New drainage ditches have also been installed to help prevent the path being washed away.

'Finishing touch'

Workers have also incorporated steep banks and drops, as well as natural obstacles, to ensure visitors stick to the correct path.

Forestry Commission Scotland, which is responsible for the lower forest section of path, was aided in the work by the National Trust for Scotland.

Stuart Chalmers, from Forestry Commission Scotland in Aberfoyle, said: "I think everyone will benefit from the work we've done to enhance the route. It's really added the finishing touch to the Ben Lomond experience.

"It was great to work with the guys from the trust. They had the experience and know-how and we learned a lot from them."

Archaeologists have excavated the site of a house on the slopes of Ben Lomond which it is thought may have belonged to Scottish folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor.