Dava Ghost Train Walk all-nighter to raise thousands for Dava Way Association
Hundreds of walkers are taking on a spooky cross country fundraiser - overnight - on Saturday, June 21.
The sold-out biennial Dava Ghost Train Walk over 23 miles from Grantown-on-Spey to Forres is set to raise money for maintenance of the off-road route maintained by the Dava Way Association (DWA).
DWA secretary, Malcolm Campbell, the trek follows the Dava Way from Grantown Square to Dallas Dhu Distillery then onwards to Forres.
He said: “We are keeping our fingers crossed that the weather will be as good as it was two years ago!
“The 2025 event will be similar, with 1st Forres Scouts, Community Off-Road Transport Action Group and DWA volunteers on-hand to ensure safety.”
The eight hour event was first held in 2009 with a break during the Covid pandemic. It was inspired by the alleged sighting of a ghost train on the path at night many years ago.
“There will be a few spooks to spot this year,” promised Malcolm, “courtesy of some enthusiastic scouts!”
All participants are bussed from Roysvale to Grantown on June 21 leaving between 8.15pm and 9pm. Refreshments are served at the former Dava Station and a breakfast bun is offered at Dunphail Station.
Everyone is expected to complete the 23 mile walk by 7am the following morning.
Tickets for the walk were priced at £40 per entry, however, some were sold at a reduced figure, provided the buyers agreed to raise £100 for the DWA.
The Dava Way Association was formed in 1997 to create a walking and cycling path along the trackbed of the old Highland Railway Line that had been closed by the Beeching cuts since 1965.
Volunteer work parties achieved this and still make regular improvements. Last month, a group improved access from Dallas Dhu Distillery.
Other than via fundraising events, most of the money required to maintain and improve the Dava Way comes from donations and grants.
For more information visit https://davaway.org.uk/
