Tom Weir Statue to be Unveiled At Centenary Event

By Contributor -

The full-size Tom Weir statue approaches the final stages of sculpting

The legendary Tom Weir is to be honoured at a special celebration event at Balmaha Bay, Loch Lomond at noon on Monday, December 29.

This event will feature a musical tribute and statue unveiling to mark the centenary of Tom Weir’s birthday. Special guests will include well-known outdoor writers and broadcasters Cameron McNeish and Jimmie MacGregor, Scottish minstrel Alistair MacDonald, sculptor Sean Hedges-Quinn – and our editor Robert Wight, who will be accompanied by photographer Barrie Marshall, whose photo of Tom Weir was the basis of the sculpture.

Tom made a major contribution to introducing generations to Scotland’s great outdoors

Through his adventures as a climber, writer, broadcaster, naturalist and as a pioneering campaigner for the protection of the Scottish environment, Tom made a major contribution to introducing generations to Scotland’s great outdoors.

Tom’s popular TV series Weir’s Way ran between 1976 and 1987 and has been frequently re-run over the past 27 years, as well as inspiring the recent STV series ‘On Weir’s Way’. Tom also had a monthly feature in the Scots Magazine for around 50 years – and, very aptly, his statue will be unveiled by fellow Scots Magazine writer, Cameron McNeish.

The event is being held at one of Tom’s favourite spots – Balmaha Bay, which is just round the corner from Gartocharn, where he lived with his wife, Rhona, who will be at the unveiling.

All lovers of the great outdoors are invited to attend

All lovers of the great outdoors are invited to attend this special celebration at Balmaha Bay, and afterwards at The Oak Tree Inn. Attendance is free and samples of Tom’s favourite brew and snack will be available. Sensible outdoor wear is recommended and those attending are encouraged to wear Tom’s iconic toorie hats, which will be available for sale on the day.

This event has been organised by the Tom Weir Memorial Group and the Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs.

Normal public bus services will be available, with connections between Balmaha and Balloch, and train services will run regularly to Balloch from Glasgow. For further information visit www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk.

Read all about the new Tom Weir statue in the January issue of The Scots Magazine. In the shops now – or order by clicking here.