One of Scotland's Great Trails which passes through West Dunbartonshire has received a boost which will greatly benefit businesses and tourist destinations in the area.

The John Muir Way is a 134-mile coast-to-coast route, running between Helensburgh and Dunbar, launched in 2014 to commemorate the Dunbar-born man who became known as the ‘Father of the National Parks’ in America.

And funding has been secured by the Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT) - who manage the trail - for a two-year marketing initiative dedicated to attracting more walkers and cyclists to the iconic coast-to-coast route.

A key focus of the initiative will be to help local businesses across West Dunbartonshire interested in working collaboratively with The John Muir Way to reach new customers and grow their organisation.

Gavin Morton, Marketing and Business Engagement Officer for The John Muir Way, commented: “I’m looking forward to working closely with businesses along the route who are keen to raise their profile as a destination on The John Muir Way. We’re in a fortunate position to have a growing market for walking and cycling tourism, together with a fantastic and unique asset to promote. There is a real opportunity for local businesses to make the most of this increased footfall by working with us.”

"Since its launch, The John Muir Way has grown in popularity with both domestic and international walkers and cyclists visiting the area, whether to do just a short section or the full route."

Keith Geddes, chair of CSGNT, added: “We’re delighted to receive this funding and would like to thank the LEADER Programme and all the local authorities involved. The funding will not only help us to continue raising awareness of the route and the legacy of leading conservationist John Muir, but will ensure that we have the resources in place to work more closely with local businesses to maximise the opportunities The John Muir Way presents.

Businesses interested in being a part of this initiative are asked to complete a short survey at: surveymonkey.co.uk/r/johnmuirway-business