National Trust for Scotland volunteers at work on Ben Lomond

Volunteers working for the National Trust for Scotland contributed more than a million pounds’ worth of time to the charity this year.

More than 3,000 unpaid workers helped maintain and look after the trust’s 46 munros, 424km (263 miles) of mountain footpaths and 76,000ha (187,800 acres) of some of the nation’s wildest countryside.

The National Trust for Scotland also looks after seven national nature reserves, 45 sites of special scientific interest, more than 400 islands and islets and the UK’s only natural and cultural world heritage site, St Kilda.

The conservation charity also cares for 129 heritage properties.

Volunteers worked 165,689 hours for the trust between 1 March and 30 November 2011 which, at national minimum wage rates, equates to £1,007,389.

Chief executive Kate Mavor said: “We have always known that our volunteers contributed a great deal to the trust.

“In fact, without their dedication and talent, our charity would simply be unable to carry out the conservation work that we do, day in day out. Their contribution is massive and now we know that in monetary terms it comes in at over £1m.

“These selfless and skilled people are making a difference not just to the trust but to Scotland’s heritage. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one who helps us in our vital work to conserve and promote the places that are in our care, for the benefit of the nation.”

Volunteers include the charity’s chairman Sir Kenneth Calman. Work carried out includes repairing footpaths on Ben Lomond, helping out with projects at Rockcliffe and working in the gardens at Drum Castle.

Anyone thinking of volunteering for the charity can see more details on the National Trust for Scotland’s website.