Conservation groups appeal for cash to buy estate where Wallace hid

CONSERVATION charities are mounting an urgent appeal for funds to buy an historic estate that once provided a hiding place for Scottish revolutionary William Wallace.

The 5,300-acre Talla and Gameshope estate in the Scottish Borders lies at the heart of the historic Ettrick Forest, which for centuries offered refuge to rogues and rebels.

It would have provided a stronghold for legendary figures, such as Wallace, during his 13th-century campaigns for independence and a battleground for the endless feuding across the Scottish Border.

Now the John Muir Trust and Borders Forest Trust are hoping to raise £1 million to buy the land, which has been put up for sale.

The two trusts believe the sale is a once in a generation opportunity to bring a special part of Scotland under conservation management.

The estate consists of spectacular hill country, including the summits of Great Hill, Molls Cleuch Dod, Carlavin Hill and Firthhope Rig.

John Hutchison, chairman of wild land charity the John Muir Trust, said: “This is the finest area of wild land in the Scottish Borders. The scale of the hills and crags is breath-taking and yet it’s highly accessible from central Scotland and the north of England.

“There are 12 magnificent hills over 600 metres in height, as well as the magnificent valley of the Gameshope burn running from a high mountain plateau down to the Talla reservoir.

“We have a unique opportunity to protect and enhance this area.

“In ten years’ time this property could sustain a flourishing mosaic of young woodlands and open hill tops, but we’re relying on support from members of the public to make that happen.”

The two trusts need to have money committed before making an offer in early March. If their bid is successful they would work together to manage the property with the help of volunteers.

They claim the wild character of Talla and Gameshope is under threat from a number of potential developments, from which they would protect it.

They say the land, which has been used for grazing sheep, would be left to regenerate so that vegetation returns, and trees would be planted.

They would aim to attract wildlife such as the golden eagle and black grouse.

John Hunt, chairman of the Borders Forest Trust, said: “After centuries of overgrazing, the land is seriously degraded in biological terms and there is huge potential for ecological restoration to bring back natural, more diverse vegetation and greatly enhanced wildlife.

“Talla and Gameshope lies at the heart of the historic Ettrick Forest and borders Carrifran Wildwood. Linking these properties would bring a large connected area under conservation management.

“This is a rare opportunity to restore a network of hills and valleys on a landscape scale, providing habitats extensive enough to be truly sustainable.”

James Carnegy, selling agent at CKD Galbraith, said there had been “significant interest” in the farm from both sheep farmers and conservation bodies.

A closing date for offers has been set for 14 March.