A trailblazing Kinross-shire nature site is throwing a birthday party to celebrate its 50-year anniversary.
RSPB Scotland Loch Leven has welcomed thousands of visitors since it was opened by Lord Mansfield on October 29, 1967.
It was the conservation charity’s first UK centre for outdoor learning and the hope was that by educating people about nature they would be inspired to take greater care of their surroundings.
To mark the half-century, a host of activities have been organised for this weekend, including guided history walks, fire lighting and den building sessions, pond dipping, wildlife spotter sheets and games hosted by education teams from the past and present.
Visitors will be invited to record their memories on a giant birthday card and enjoy a slice of cake in a marquee, while they hear stories from people who have helped to shape the reserve.
Speakers at Sunday’s birthday party will include the first warden Jack Swan, local historian David Munro, RSPB Scotland regional director Martin Auld and the first teacher-warden Bridget Gray.
This weekend will also be the last chance to see an anniversary timeline exhibition in the visitor centre, which features stories, photos and memories collected with the help of volunteer writer-in-residence Anita John.
Also on display will be photos documenting a project by Kinross High School, in which pupils completed 50 challenges to support wildlife at RSPB Scotland Loch Leven.
Alice O’Rourke, visitor experience officer at the reserve, said: “I feel very lucky to be part of this momentous celebration and can’t wait for the party. It’s clear from all of the stories people have shared this year and the scale of the education programmes over the years that this reserve has had a massive impact locally.
“I hope all visitors, volunteers and staff past and present feel welcome to join in with the fun activities we’ve been planning.”
The 50th birthday party will run from 11am until 3pm on Sunday. Visitors do not need to pre-book any of the activities but spaces are limited so early arrival is recommended. Additional parking will be available.
