Hillwalkers and climbers will be able to legally carry Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) from 12 January following a change in UK regulations. Previously the devices, which send out a distress signal identifying the user’s exact location when activated, could only be licensed for use on boats and planes. Some mountain rescuers have expressed concern following a potential rise in call outs from PLBs because the devices do not allow two way communication so there is no way for the rescue services to check whether the device has been activated in a genuine emergency and therefore allowing the call to be…

Artworks are to be installed on coastal paths near John O'Groats as part of a wider plan to revamp the town. Imaginatively called Path, the scheme will cost £15,000 and is being funded by Highlands and Islands Entreprise (HIE). HIE is calling for artists to submit proposals for permanent artworks as part of a plan to invest £6m in the area. In June the crumbling Hotel was painted with murals as a temporary measure prior to the re-development. The Path project will start in May 2012. Nick Scroggie, from HIE, told the BBC that it was hoped to make the…

The line up for the 2012 Fort William Mountain Festival in Lochaber has been announced and includes Artic explorer Bob Shepton and downhill mountain biker Steve Peat. The festival kicks off with an evening launch on Wednesday 15 February and runs until Sunday 19, closing with the Best of Banff World Tour films. The winner of the 2012 Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture will be announced during the festival and there is also a film competition. For tickets and more information see the Festival website. To browse and book accommodation in Fort William and the surrounding area see…

The first of this winter’s free Mountain Safety Lectures will take place this Wednesday (28 December) at Aviemore’s Mountain Cafe. Simon Steer, the deputy team leader from the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team is the first of a series guest speakers taking part in this year’s lectures organised by the Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS). A spokesman for the MCofS said, “Simon’s entertaining anecdotes; combined with a meal prepared by Kirsten at the Mountain Cafe provides the perfect combination for a great night out. Please note if you would like a meal, book early on 01479 812473 to avoid disapointment. Meals…

Temporary visitor accommodation may be installed on the Isle of Rum following concerns about the hostel in the island’s Kinloch Castle. Most of Rum is owned by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and managed as a national nature reserve. Kinloch Castle, also owned by SNH, is a major visitor attraction and the main provider of visitor accommodation. However the building requires major investment, well beyond the reaches of SNH’s budget. SNH has spent more than £1 million on the castle in the past few years. But despite this and major efforts by staff the hostel is unable to offer accommodation to…