AROUND 60,000 people have visited a statue dedicated to broadcaster, author and outdoors enthusiast Tom Weir.

The tribute to the presenter, best known for his long-running show Weir's Way, was installed eight months ago at Balmaha Bay on the east side of Loch Lomond.

Work is now under way to expand the site with new picnic tables and six memorial benches, with funding of £21,000 secured for the improvements. It includes money from Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs and Love Loch Lomond, representing local businesses.

James Fraser, chairman of the Friends of Lomond and The Trossachs, said: “We are pleased the statue is proving to be so popular and is helping to strengthen the visitor appeal of Balmaha.

"It has become a real focal point at Balmaha Bay due to the work we have undertaken in partnership with the Tom Weir Memorial Group, with the support of the general public, who have made generous donations, and funding from a range of other sources.''

Karen Donnelly, manager of Love Loch Lomond, said: “A major priority for us is strengthening connectivity around Loch Lomondside and the work under way at Tom Weir's Rest is improving pedestrian access between a busy car park and scenic Balmaha Bay.

"The statue itself has also proved to be a major draw and, with our funding support, we are therefore pleased to be able to help accelerate works to provide a high quality visitor experience at Balmaha.''