A historic waterwheel at Breadalbane Folklore Centre in Killin has been given a new lease of life – thanks to funding by the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, Historic Scotland and Stirling Council.

The giant waterwheel, which dates back to the 19th century when meal was ground and tweed was woven there, was completely stripped down and returned to its original Victorian design including the restoration of cast iron components and the manufacture of parts, which could not be restored.

Grant Moir, Heritage & Land Management Services Manager for the National Park Authority, said: "We are delighted to have had the opportunity to contribute to the restoration of such a significant architectural and cultural feature and hope that in doing so have helped to provide a focal point to Killin's industrial past for residents and visitors alike."

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The Killin Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme, which awarded £5,000 towards the work, is jointly funded by the National Park Authority and Historic Scotland, and awards funding for general repair of historic buildings or the reinstatement of architectural detail, paying up to 70% of the cost of eligible work.

Stirling Council provided the majority of the funding by contributing £30,000 for the project.

Stirling Provost Fergus Wood who went to see the new wheel in action said on commending the scheme: "The Council is delighted with the support it received through the Area Regeneration Scheme which has allowed us to carry out this very important reconstruction to this beautiful historic building. Anyone thinking of carrying out a project to repair a historic building in the area should consider this very worthwhile scheme."

(GK/JM)