Work on a new memorial site at a popular scenic spot in the Doon Valley has been completed.

The Loch Doon Memorial Woodland is intended as a place where people can visit to remember loved ones who enjoyed the peaceful surroundings and beautiful views of the area in years gone by.

The work - which got under way in January - is also intended to put a stop to the anti-social behaviour that has affected the area close to Loch Doon Castle.

Damage has been reported in recent years as a result of a large number of campers in the area, with fires in the castle itself, damage to the walls, the cutting down of trees and even the dumping of human waste.

Cumnock Chronicle: Hard work for a great site.Hard work for a great site. (Image: Drew Filson for the Doon Valley)

Local schoolchildren helped to plant trees at the site, with all types of hardwoods grown locally.

The East Ayrshire Woodlands team also helped out with planting and fitting parts of the site.

Now that the site has been completed, it's hoped that it can become a popular place for people to remember loved ones who used to visit the loch.

Cumnock Chronicle: The site will be a place to remember loved ones.The site will be a place to remember loved ones. (Image: Drew Filson for the Doon Valley)

Doon Valley independent councillor Drew Filson said he was delighted to see the project completed.

He said: "Thanks to Franics McHauey for growing the native trees from seeds he picked on his walks during covid.

"[Thanks to] Bruce Davidson and his apprectices from East Ayrshire Woodlands for their help planting and fitting stakes and protectors.

Cumnock Chronicle: The sign being fired up.The sign being fired up. (Image: Drew Filson for the Doon Valley)

"[Thanks to] Michael and Daniel Durrong at Dalmellington Sawmill for their engraved sign, and transporting trees to site.

"Once matured, the leaf colour and blosson on these trees will look great. A special place to remember loved ones.

"The small wild camping spaces are still in place."