26-05-2025
New group announces plans to restore iconic Dumfries and Galloway landmark
The Restoring Kelton Subgroup has been launched to give a fresh look to Kelton the Beltie in Castle Douglas.
Plans are being made to restore an iconic Castle Douglas landmark.
The Restoring Kelton Subgroup has been launched to give a fresh look to Kelton the Beltie – a three-metre tall willow sculpture of a Belted Galloway bull on market Hill.
The artwork was created by Auchencairn artist Trevor Leat, who also made the statues for The Wickerman Festival with Alex Rigg.
Kelton was originally commissioned for the Royal Highland Showcase and has since become a beloved local landmark and gateway to Galloway, representing both the strength of our agricultural roots and the character of our market food town.
The subgroup is made up of representatives from the town's community council, Castle Douglas Development Forum, Men's Shed, Rotary, Forward Rotary, the common good sub committee and the place plan team.
Local councillor and group member Pauline Drysdale said: 'This is more than just a restoration. Local artists Alex Rigg will work alongside Trevor Leat, to re-create Kelton on Market Hill, so we can all see them at work.
'We are also planning a community activity programme to include school and nursery pupils and a celebration to bring our community together over the summer.
'We are actively fundraising and we will publicly thank all sponsors and donors on a permanent plaque near the sculpture, as well as across social media and printed materials.
'This is a wonderful opportunity to be part of something meaningful and visible, right at the heart of Castle Douglas. If you'd like to support the project or would like more details I'd be delighted to speak to you.'
Pledges have been received from local businesses, charities and societies, with the Belted Galloway Society donating £2,000.
The group aims to raise around £5,000 extra to support a community programme and lights for the structure. Some funding will come through grants, which will be identified and managed by Castle Douglas Development Forum on behalf of the Restoring Kelton Subgroup.
Councillor Drysdale added: 'Many thanks for all pledges so far. Do please contact myself should you like join any of our meetings or should you wish to contribute. We next meet at The Mad Hatter on June 4 at 7pm. All welcome.'
There are plans for community events celebrating the story of the Belted Galloway and its importance to the agricultural economy, as well as a public celebration bringing the community together around Kelton.
Community willow weaving, arts and crafts workshops and willow talks and demonstrations are also in the works.
