Social media anger over plastic rose petals littering cherished Strathspey loch
American novellist and poet Gertrude Stein famously wrote “Rose is a rose is a rose is a rose…” but then she wasn’t standing beside Loch Vaa, by Aviemore.
There has been anger over the ‘dumping’ of thousands of plastic rose petals into and along the shore of Loch Vaa just north of Aviemore.
After coming across the find on Saturday, Ian Stewart posted on Aviemore & Spey Valley Community Issues Forum: “Someone has spread a load of plastic rose petals all over the first wee beach at Loch Vaa.
“We spent 20 minutes filling a bag, but there is loads more to do.
“If anyone is down over the next few days and can spare a few minutes, take a bag and maybe some wellies!”
It is anyone’s guess just how many plastic chips have been left on the beauty spot but today Mr Stewart told the Strathy: “Someone’s had a romantic moment - but left their brains at home!”
He estimated that about 50 metres of shoreline had been affected, with the plastic petals stretching out some three or four metres into the water.
Reportedly other locals have been down today in an attempt to clear more of the area.
One company selling plastic rose petals online promises:
More than enough: Petal size 2" by 2". One thousand petals cover about 25 square feet if spread evenly and are sufficient in most scenarios including proposal, anniversary, Valentine's, Mother's Day, and romantic night. Feel free to buy more to use in larger events such as wedding, ceremony, party, decoration, etc.”
