Lekking around in Perthshire and a new network built by women in the uplands, for women in the uplands
- Heather Trust
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Welcome to our March newsletter! Spring is well and truly on its way, and with it comes a season of exciting announcements, events and new beginnings for The Heather Trust.
We are thrilled to officially launch the Women's Upland Network this month and invite you to join us at one (or many) of our upcoming events:
On the 17th April, the Spring Auction preview week starts, allowing you to browse through the entire catalogue a full week before the bidding officially starts.
Then on the 21st, Dr Dave Parish joins us at Abercairny Estate for our Lekkie & Brekkie outing, where you can view the black grouse display at dawn before sitting down to breakfast and a proper discussion about what's happening in our uplands.
Finally, on the 23rd, join Katrina at Forum Books in Corbridge for a special book reading and reception. Meet the author, ask questions, and learn more about the inspiration behind her book and the work of The Heather Trust.
Dr Dave Parish is our guest speaker at Lekkie & Brekkie
The upcoming Lekkie & Brekkie offers a rare chance to witness the incredible black grouse lek at dawn, guided by the estate keeper. Alongside this unforgettable display, there will be opportunities to spot other wildlife, including red-listed wading birds.
The morning also includes expert-led discussions on the challenges facing our uplands. We are also excited to announce that Dr Dave Parish, Ecologist and NatureScot Ornithology Advisor, will present insights into black grouse habitats, conservation and other upland species and current research findings.
Tickets are limited and are running out quickly! These are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and early booking is advised to secure your place at this unique event. All proceeds from the event to benefit The Heather Trust.
The Women’s Upland Network launched this month!
We are delighted to officially introduce the Women’s Upland Network — a vibrant and supportive community dedicated to celebrating and connecting women who live and work in our uplands. What began as an idea shared in conversations is now becoming a reality, thanks to the enthusiasm of our founding members and the generous support of the Scottish Government, whose funding has helped bring this vision to life.
The Women’s Upland Network (WUN) is being shaped by a dynamic group of women from across England and Scotland. They come from diverse professional and personal backgrounds, but share a common passion: a deep commitment to our upland landscapes and to championing the women who are part of these communities.
With a digital launch on International Women’s Day (8 March), founder member of WUN, Katrina Candy, also introduced the initiative to a group of Scotland’s Rural College Wildlife & Conservation Management students at their Hill & Mountain Research Centre at Crianlarich on Saturday 21st March. Amidst glorious sunshine, the group (which comprised students from a variety of sectors e.g. finance, farming, horticulture and gamekeeping) enjoyed an afternoon on the hill discussing farming and land management issues.
Learn more about the network by browsing our website or go straight to our sign up form to join WUN for free today. Together, we can amplify voices, celebrate achievements and shape a strong future for women in the uplands.
Join us at Forum Books for a special book reading and reception
The Heather Trust will host an event at Forum Books in Corbridge on Thursday 23 April, featuring a reading from Heather Munro’s Race Against the Flames by author and Trust Director Katrina Candy.
Following one of the worst wildfire seasons in recent years, the book aims to help children understand the importance of fire prevention and responsible behaviour in the countryside. Set in the rural landscape of Glen Stoushie, the story follows Heather Munro, her gamekeeper husband Stag, and their dog Biscuits as they respond to a fast-moving wildfire threatening their community — highlighting the value of quick thinking, local knowledge and collective action.
The Corbridge event will include a live reading, followed by a reception where attendees can meet the author, ask questions, and learn more about the inspiration behind the book and the work of The Heather Trust, as well as an opportunity to browse the Forum bookshop.
Browse through our Spring Auction catalogue on Preview Week
As the hedgerows burst into life, so does our annual Heather Trust Spring Auction! A new addition for this year is a ‘Preview Week’ opening on 17 April 2026, allowing you to browse our exclusive and unique items one week before bidding starts.
Every donation and successful bid directly supports the vital work we do to champion sustainable, resilient moorlands, and funds our work to protect and restore these special landscapes. By participating in our auction, you are ensuring our uplands continue to provide benefits for nature, climate, and rural communities for generations to come.
We are working hard to finalise our catalogue! If you would like to contribute a Lot or make a financial donation, we will be very grateful. Every act of support strengthens our work.
RSVP via the button below to be the first to receive the link to our auction site on Preview Week.
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