Military ending tenancy of lodge in Cairngorms

The military is ending its decades-long use of a mountain lodge in the Cairngorms.

Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force personnel and their families have used Rothiemurchus Lodge as a base for outdoor activities since 1950.

The 102-bed site, near Aviemore, has been closed since the end of May.

The Army in Scotland said it was no longer viable to maintain and operate the lodge.

The military's withdrawal was first reported in the Strathspey and Badenoch Herald.

An army spokeswoman told BBC Scotland: "It is with regret that we are seeking to end the tenancy agreement with the Rothiemurchus Estate.

"Unfortunately, it is no longer viable to maintain and operate the Lodge."

She added: "We are grateful to the Rothiemurchus Estate for allowing us to offer this facility to members of the military and other organisations for several decades."

The lodge was established by a senior officer, Lt Col JP Grant, as a place for troops to rest and recover and where no weapons were allowed.

Rothiemurchus Estate said: "We are sad to have been informed that the army has decided to cease operating Rothiemurchus Lodge for the benefit of regular and ex-regular armed forces.

"There is now the opportunity for a charity or business to take it forward."

The lodge has been run by a charity involving the armed forces.

Over the years, the accommodation has been used by serving and former soldiers, sailors and air force personnel.

Reservists, Ministry of Defence civilians and cadet forces have also stayed at the lodge.

The site is close to some of the Cairngorms' highest mountains, Cairngorm Mountain ski centre and Rothiemurchus Estate's facilities as well as water sports facilities at Loch Morlich and Loch Inch.