Press Release

GLENLIVET ESTATE OPEN DAY ON 27 MAY 2006

23 May 2006

The Glenlivet estate is hosting an open day on Saturday 27 May, 10.00 am - 4.30 pm, for local residents from Tomintoul and Glenlivet and visitors.

The action-packed programme of events is free, and includes bus tours of the estate, guided walks, timber harvesting demonstrations, electro-fishing demonstrations by staff from the Spey Fisheries Board, visits to the Balcorach Reindeer Farm and other local farm businesses. There will also be a chance to try archery at Tomintoul Highland Games Field with a local instructor.

Andrew Wells, Countryside and Forestry Services Manager for The Crown Estate, said that the event has been organised for local people, visitors and anyone interested in the management of the estate to learn more about the diverse range of businesses that operate there.

He said: “The management of a large estate like Glenlivet, which takes in a mixture of upland moors, forests, working farms and other business units all within the Cairngorms National Park, is about working in partnership with estate tenants, local enterprises, members of the community and various agencies. The focus of the day will be on the people who live and work on the estate itself and the challenges faced in maintaining a prosperous and dynamic sustainable rural economy.

“We look forward to discussing a range of land management issues with visitors and learning more about local people’s aspirations and ideas for the future development of the area. I would encourage people to register to attend by phoning us, particularly for the bus tours as spaces will be limited.”

Those interested in visiting can register to attend by calling the Glenlivet estate office on 01807 580 283.

Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Andrew Thin said: “The CNPA is delighted to be able to support this open day via our new Communication and Consultation Grant Scheme for land-based businesses.

“Events like this are a really good way of informing the general public about how an estate is run and the types of benefits it can present. It is very important to the Park Authority that other estates can replicate this initiative and there is funding there to help others follow The Crown Estate’s example.”

Staff will be available all day at the Estate Office and Information Centre to welcome visitors who do not wish to participate in the bus tours and to provide information and answer any questions they may have. A complimentary buffet-style lunch and refreshments will be available to those who attend. Full details of the day can be found on the Glenlivet estate website.