Two years ago much of the path was badly eroded, with vegetation destroyed. In places the path had spread to five metres wide and could be seen from afar. Water and frost damage had resulted in deep scouring. Construction work has been carried out by Northern Conservation (Ballater), Conserve Environmental Contractors (Carrbridge) and Axiss Conservation Services (Carrbridge). Additional work has been carried out by Scottish Conservation Projects Trust and local volunteers, with Bristow Helicopters and 3 Flight Army Air Corps (Leuchars) assisting with the positioning of materials. The completed work has received acclaim from walkers, the Mountaineering Council of Scotland and land managers alike.

The Clachnaben Path Trust was set up in 1998 when concerned local hill walkers saw the need to put something back into the hills. The current trustees are Jim Maison, Hamish Lean, Becky Adron, Bruce Barker and Donald Thomas. They have been very encouraged by the support of the NEMT, member clubs and many smaller donations from local hillwalkers. The project has also received funding from Aberdeenshire Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Texaco, the Cairngorm Club, the Gannochy Trust and the Scottish Mountaineering Trust. Glendye Estate owner, Charles Gladstone has provided accommodation for workers and free materials. The Trust is currently planning next year's work, which should complete the remaining sections of the path leaving further landscaping and maintenance to be carried out in future years. Anyone wishing to contribute to the Trust can contact us c/o Maclean and Lowson, 94 East High Street, Forfar.

Donald Thomas, 18th September 2000

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