An attractive waterfall gushes over a dramatic drop to the south of Loch Thom — just before the start of the Brisbane Glen, writes David Carnduff.

The falls are not obvious from the road, but a stile at the fence is a hint there something worth visiting at the foot of the slope.

I have taken pictures there after heavy rain and been impressed by the peat coloured water thundering into the gorge.

The site is darkly dramatic and Tolkien-like in appearance.

Last summer I visited during a warm dry spell and was disgusted by what I saw. Idiots who had camped there had abandoned their tent, and assorted piles of rubbish were strewn everywhere.

A short time later, the debris at this attractive spot was cleared up by rangers from Muirshiel Country Park who issued a statement asking people to respect the countryside.

This type of behaviour has also been highlighted by Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park where ‘wild camping’ has been banned in many areas because of the anti-social behaviour that often accompanies it. Now, closer to home, the problem has occurred at “The Gretas” where, as reported on page 3 this week, Kirsty McGregor’s dog was injured by rubbish left lying at the popular spot. And garbage is often found dumped at the viewpoint behind the town.

Fly tipping is also an enormous problem throughout the area, as reported by Alison Masterton in this week’s Inverkip News (page 26).

In fact, in part of Shielhill Glen, tipping on an almost industrial scale has been taking place for years. Every other week, another old mattress or furniture is dumped in a lay-by.

We are pleased to report this week that Patricia Gibson MP is to raise the Greeto Falls situation with the council. Every effort to stop the scourge of litter and fly tipping is to be welcomed.