World Awaits after 40 years of Shepherding

Forty years of shepherding in the hills of Luss were marked last week as one of Luss Estates' longest serving employees retired.

Now, George Paterson (65), who has been shepherd at Blairnairn Farm since 1973, is set to travel the world after bidding farewell to friends and colleagues at a celebratory gathering in Luss.

"When I first arrived at Blairnairn with my father, I had no idea I'd still be there a lifetime later," said George."It has been a beautiful place to live and work all these years, and I've been very lucky to have been able to spend so much of my time outdoors on the Luss hills. I will miss it, and everyone I've worked with over the years, and there's no doubt Luss will be a hard act to follow. However, I've now applied for my first passport and plan to spend my retirement travelling and discovering lots more lovely places all over the world. Thank you to everyone at Luss Estates, and best wishes for the future."

Mr Paterson first came to Blairnairn Farm in 1972 with his father, and together with his brother Jimmy, played a vital part in the continued success of the sheep enterprise at Luss Estates which now totals some 3000 Black Face and Scottish Mule. In recognition of his long service, Mr Paterson was presented with a certificate from the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. He also received an oil painting – 'Majestic Ben' by Wendy Reeves – from Luss Estates Chairman Sir Malcolm Colquhoun who thanked George for his dedication, hard work and commitment to the land and livestock of Blairnairn Farm over the past four decades.

Sir Malcolm Colquhoun said: "On behalf of my late father, my family and myself, may I offer our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to George for his loyalty, commitment and dedication to Luss Estates. Forty years' service is a rare and special achievement and I am delighted that the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland have honoured George in this way, recognising not only his long service but also his dedication to shepherding. On behalf of all at Luss Estates, I would like to wish George a long, happy and active retirement as he travels the world. I am sure we are all looking forward to reading his postcards!"