A couple of popular bothies run by the Mountain Bothies Association (MBA) will be closed for short periods in the near future, so that maintenance work can be carried out. Do you fancy lending a helping hand?

A major work party is due to be held at Shenavall 4 - 12 May. Volunteers are urgently required to help with a range of tasks to keep this popular bothy in top condition, says the MBA. If you can spare some time to assist then get in touch with Peter Aikman on 01464 8200028 or by e-mail.

The following month (1-5 June) there will be a work party at Strabeg. The main jobs here are the replacement of the two front windows plus cladding the ceiling in the main room. A number of other smaller jobs will also be undertaken if there are sufficient volunteers. One very important task is keeping everyone fed, so the MBA say they'd be delighted to hear from anyone who could look after the catering. If you are interested in helping then contact Robert Barton on 01381 6206760 or be email.

Anyone intending to visit either of these bothies during the work periods should be prepared to camp.

Meanwhile in Northumberland, Wainhope bothy is closed until the end of August. It stands in an environmentally sensitive area and is out of action for conservation reasons until around early September.