BALLOCH is to be home of one of five new water refill stations being installed in communities around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

Scottish Water has announced that a top-up tap will be put in place to enable visitors and locals to refill water bottles as part of efforts to reduce litter and cut down on single-use plastics.

Balloch is one of four locations around the National Park where the facilities will be set up – the others are Balmaha, Rowardennan, Aberfoyle and Callander – with others to be introduced in Aviemore, Pitlochry, and Mabie Forest in Dumfries and Galloway.

Peter Farrer, the utility company’s chief operating officer, said: “We’re delighted to be able to keep people hydrated with our public water taps at the same time as reducing our footprint on the natural environment.

“There is a real connection between the environment and the water we all enjoy and use daily.

“The growing network of public taps throughout the country is already making a real contribution to our efforts to be more sustainable and reduce litter.”

Simon Jones, director of environment and visitor services at the National Park Authority said: “These taps will benefit both the local and wider environment by reducing litter and helping address the environmental impact of single use plastics such as water bottles.

“As well as being a serious threat to the National Park’s wildlife, litter impacts communities and affects visitors’ enjoyment while they are here.”

Scottish Water bosses say the new taps will be switched on after a series of tests have been completed to ensure the water is “wholesome”.

To find your nearest refill point visit yourwateryourlife.co.uk.