A garden created to welcome weary walkers into Fort William as they approached the end of the West Highland Way, also now recognises the work of NHS staff who are looking after the people of Lochaber during the Covid-19 pandemic, part in thanks to BSW.

BSW Timber was among several sponsors who contributed both funds and materials to create the homage, appropriately situated in front of the Belford Hospital, which was unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony by Staff Nurse Jasvir Robertson and a group of fellow hospital staff.

A plaque resurrected to thank the work of NHS staff reads: ‘This plaque is dedicated to the hardworking men and women of the NHS who stood their ground and never faltered on the front lines during the pandemic of 2020. Your community thanks you.’

Olly Stephen, mill manager at Fort William, said: “This year we have seen communities come together like never before to recognise the sheer hard work and determination of our NHS staff throughout this global pandemic, so when we had the opportunity to do a little something to say thank you, we did not hesitate.”

Olly was among representatives of the Fort William Town Team whose volunteers have worked hard tidying, painting and tending plants when Covid restrictions were eased earlier this year.

He continued: “We are extremely proud to have supported the erection of this plaque within the garden, providing much deserved recognition to the NHS staff who are supporting our community through these unprecedented times.”

Work to create a haven of plants, with a peaceful granite seating area, began several years ago by the owner of a nearby guest house, Norrie MacLean. Alongside volunteers from the Fort William Town Team, he worked hard to bring a layout conceived by local woman, Maureen MacMaster, to fruition.

Flowers, shrubs and trees were carefully selected and planted around the main footpath and empty verge, alongside the busy Belford Road, putting a ‘living green curtain’ between walkers and vehicles. A traditional archway was also erected bearing the friendly words ‘Welcome to Fort William’.

Although he now lives in Dundee, Norrie still regularly makes the journey back to the site to tend to the garden and add extra details.

During this recent work, many passers-by stopped to talk, not only to ask questions about the plants, but also to say just how much they appreciate the garden as they make their way to and from the town. 

Well used by out-patients, hospital visitors with time to spare and, on nicer days, hospital staff taking a well-deserved quiet break, it is a much-loved space and the ideal location to pay tribute.

To find out more about BSW’s CSR commitments, click here.