A MUCH-LOVED visitor attraction on Cumbrae has been given a badly-needed revamp thanks to a local community group and an expert tree surgeon.

The 'Indian's Face', near Fintry Bay, has been a must-see attraction for many years.

It's been cleaned up and given a new paint job after the intervention of the Cumbrae Burns Club, whose members have arranged regular repaints for many years of the famous Crocodile Rock in Millport.

John Orr, from Cumbrae Burns Club, said:  "A few years ago it was mentioned at a committee meeting that the 'Indian's Face' was in need of a clean up and a fresh lick of paint.

"At the time, several members of the club volunteered to undertake this task.

"A few weeks ago we were advised that a tree surgeon, Callum McLaughlin, had offered to tidy up around the face and also to paint it.

"The local farmer, Alastair McIntyre, who owns the land, was happy for this to proceed, and Cumbrae Burns Club agreed to pay the tree surgeon’s costs, including ferry fares.

Largs and Millport Weekly News:

"The Crocodile Rock and the Indian’s Face are the two main painted attractions on the island and are well known landmarks to visitors. Cumbrae Burns Club has been involved in this since the local council ceased to do the work.

"Rumour has it that the eyes or nose of the Indian’s Face was originally used to guide vessels, possibly smugglers, to the inlets on the nearby shore.

"Cumbrae Burns Club holds a St Andrew's Night Dance in the Fields Studies Council every year. This event is a major fundraiser for the club, and each year we agree, at our annual general meeting to distribute the funds to the various youth organisations on the island.

"We also make sure that funds are kept available for projects like the Crocodile Rock and the Indian’s Face.

Largs and Millport Weekly News:

"Cumbrae Burns Club is one of the oldest established clubs on the island and we are pleased to be able to do our bit for the community."

Callum, who originally hails from the island, though he now lives in West Kilbride, said he was delighted to lend a hand.

Callum, who runs CF Tree Services, told the News: "It isn't the sort of usual call I get as a tree surgeon, but hailing from Millport it was a nice surprise to play my part in this. 

"It required removing four trees from the top of the rock and several around the bottom. The end result improves the sight greatly to the local landmark.

"It wasn't overly tricky, and I abseiled from the top to carry out the works and was anchored on to a tree at the top.  It took around half a day or so 

"The Indian's Face very much adds to the charm of the island, and is a must see for any tourists coming to the island, particularly now that they can get a clear view.

"It was a very enjoyable job and I have had a lot of positive feedback on it."