A new heritage trail has been created in East Dunbartonshire, allowing walkers, cyclists and visitors to discover more about the town's industrial history.

The trail has been created through East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust and the Heritage Lottery funded project, Kirkintilloch's Industrial Past.

The trail features six sculptural markers which represent an important part of Kirkintilloch's local history and have been installed along a one-mile stretch of the canal embankment between the Marina and Hillhead Road.

The sculptures have been designed and made by local artists Elspeth Bennie and Becky Sik, as well as project volunteers, local young people and last surviving foundry, Archibald Young Limited.


Chair of the EDLC Trust, Scott Hill, said: "The town of Kirkintilloch has an extremely interesting industrial past and the EDLC Trust is delighted to bring this history to life through this heritage trail on the canal.

"The trail begins at the marina where an information board describes the route and gives some background to the sculptures and markers. The artistic talent involved in creating this trail will catch the eye of canal users for the enjoyment of local people and tourists alike."

Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, Colin McLean, added: "The factories of Kirkintilloch played a central role in the industrial history of the area bringing with them jobs, housing and economic prosperity.

"The Heritage Lottery Fund is delighted to support this project as it will allow people to try their hand at something new while learning about and take pride in their shared past."

(JP/IT)