Leys Estate Group was again in attendance at Banchory Show, and this year, our stand focused on the new 1.7km multi-user Loch of Leys path. We used the opportunity to not only raise awareness of the new path but also the history of the Loch of Leys and interesting facts about the path project.

We were delighted to hear many positive stories from people already using the path for walking, cycling and running. We also highlighted the history of Loch of Leys and the recent vandalism at the path, as well as the importance of taking home your litter and dog poo bags.

Throughout the day the team spoke to past and present tenants, members of the local community and visitors to the area. However, the most popular visitor to the stand was definitely Otto the Black Lab puppy!

Before the end of term, pupils from Crathes Primary School created an artwork of the Loch of Leys which provided a perfect backdrop to the stand and we were delighted to welcome a steady stream of pupils and their families to view the canvas throughout the day.

Central to our tent was our ‘rubbish tree’ which highlighted the importance of leaving the countryside as you find it and the impact that rubbish can have on the environment.

Thank you to everyone involved in organising the show and also to the trade stand judges who award us the prize for the Most Interesting Trade Stand at the Show.

The Burnett family has a long-standing connection with Banchory Show as Thomas Burnett of Leys was one of the founding members in 1820. In 1920, Sir Thomas Burnett of Leys presented the Centenary Trophy for the Overall Horse Champion which is still presented to this day.

A firm favourite on the north-east calendar, the show attracts some of the area’s finest livestock as well as a large number of visitors to the area.