Retaining wall, Crathes Castle, Banchory. 10th October 2022

This was our first project in the North East region for many years and Steve Denham had arranged the event with the ranger from the Crathes Castle National Trust for Scotland.

The site was an hour and a half north of Dundee and a fine drive through beautiful woodland and wide fields.

Steve, an advanced Waller and instructor based in Alford, led a group of five who were keen to get going.

Within the grounds of the castle a retaining wall in a ha-ha, a recessed landscape feature, required repairing and extending.

Steve had organised a trailer full of slightly pink granite, semi-dressed and a useful size to fit in with the existing stone.

Good progress was made through the morning.

We had a surprise visit from Syd and Irena Mitchell, who were in splendid form. They now live in Macduff, and decided to take in our project on a day out with friends. They send greetings to those who remember them from long ago.

With fine weather and Steve’s laid back direction the wall looked great at the end of the day.

It would be good to return next year.

There’s plenty of parking, toilet facilities and a very pleasant cafe which is always appreciated.

Thanks again to Steve and Kate for the pics and text.