A FORMER TV weather forecaster who became a household name to millions of viewers has been elected as the new convener of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park board.

Science education consultant Dr Heather Reid spent 15 years presenting weather forecasts on the BBC's Reporting Scotland programme - earning her the affectionate nickname of 'Heather the Weather'.

 

She was elected as Convener by the Park Authority’s Board at its meeting on Monday and will take up her new position on February 1.

 

She takes on the role for a three-year period, replacing current convener James Stuart, who has served the maximum two terms.

First appointed to the National Park Board in November 2018, Dr Reid has more than 25 years of experience in public science engagement and outreach, especially in environmental sciences.

Her appointment comes during the 20th anniversary year for Scotland’s first National Park and at a time when the role of the National Park Authority is evolving, with an increased focus on tackling the global climate emergency and nature crisis.

Dr Reid said: “It is an honour to have been elected as the next convener of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority.

“I look forward to working with our board and staff as we finalise our important new National Park Partnership Plan during 2023.

"I am especially committed to our developing work around nature and climate and look forward to further engagement on these topics with National Park communities, visitors and key stakeholders next year.”

Mr Stuart said: “I’d like to be the first to congratulate Heather on her appointment as convener. It has been a huge privilege to have been able to serve in that role for the last six years and I believe Heather will be able to take the Park Authority to even greater heights.”

The park authority's board is responsible for making strategic decisions for the National Park on matters such as nature, climate, visitor management and planning.

With a background in weather and climate, Dr Reod has worked for more than 25 years to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change.

Since joining the Board she has worked on issues including sustainable travel, nature recovery and the Park Authority’s journey to net zero emissions.

Dr Reid also serves on the National Park’s youth committee, working with young people from the area to champion their voices in Board decision-making.

You can find out more about the National Park Board on the National Park Authority website (lochlomond-trossachs.org).