The traditional way-marking sign at Carmichael had enduring the ravages of more than 100 years of Scottish weather and had understandably fallen into disrepair.

However, the sign – which sits at the crossroads on a National Cycle Route – has been fully restored thanks to a grant from the council-administered Renewable Energy Fund.

The £2800 funding from the Clyde Wind Farm and SSE Renewables Fund, which is managed by the council, has enabled Carmichael Community Council to sympathetically refurbish the sign, honouring its unique heritage.

The project is not only a link to history, but also an indicator of work planned in the near future to enhance the life of the local community.

Ray Peace, Chair of the Carmichael Community Council, said: “Renovation of the village sign is just one part of several community-focused activities that are encouraging team-building between residents and school children, including improving the village green area.

“Our aim is to provide support and wellbeing for our village residents and visitors alike with a view to transforming the area in a positive and environmentally-friendly way for future generations to enjoy, while also organising inclusive events that bring us together in the present in a positive way.”

The Chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Robert Brown, said: “The work done to restore such a striking sign, and to maintain its traditional look, shows skill and quality that can only come from people who deeply care about it, and I congratulate everyone who has contributed to this project.

“Preserving the historic aspects of a village at the same time as maintaining the local people’s sense of belonging are both vital aspects for a community and I am delighted that the REF is able to support it in Carmichael in this way.”