PERTHSHIRE PUPILS are set to take to the trees thanks to a £1.66 million initiative launched yester-day.

The Perthshire Big Tree Country Heritage and Access Project was unveiled at the Woodfair when Provost Bob Scott handed over the keys to the new Woodland Bus.

Part of a wider, three-year project, the bus will take woodlands into schools across Perth and Kinross to learn about the area’s natural heritage.

By getting youngsters involved at an early age, it is hoped awareness and understanding can lead to greater protection of woodland areas.

Plans for an upgraded path network, and interpretation inspired by local stories and folklore, will enhance the Big Tree Country experience for people of all ages.

Councillor Bob Ellis, chairman of Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust, said, “Perthshire is known as Big Tree Country throughout the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

“The project will help ensure that the visitor experience matches their expectations.

“A key part of our strategy will be to conserve and protect our heritage trees and woodlands.”

The tree and woodland sites within the project will be grouped into five clusters and Dunkeld and Birnam will be the first to benefit.

The creation of three all-abilities circuits there will enable people in wheelchairs or parents with pushchairs to follow the river through the grounds of Dunkeld House Hotel and on to enjoy the view from Ossian’s Hall at the Hermitage in one direction or to marvel at the age of the Birnam Oak in the other.

Syd House, the Forestry Commission conservator for Perth and Argyll, added, “Big Tree Country is almost as well known for the people connected with the trees as for the trees themselves.

“From inspiring Burns, to Shakespearian mentions, the area also boasts two of the finest plant collectors, David Douglas, after whom the Douglas fir is named, and Archibald Menzies, who introduced the monkey puzzle tree to Europe.

“The Heritage and Access Project recognises the importance of connecting people to their natural heritage, which is why it will work to involve local schools and communities as much as possible.

“The Woodland Bus is a great way of making the initial contact, particularly with schools, providing them with information and encouraging them to go out into the forests to enjoy their woodland heritage.”