EAST Lothian Countryside Rangers have recruited six new rangers on a seasonal basis for the summer thanks to funding from NatureScot.

NatureScot Better Places funding has gone directly to 24 countryside, coast and island projects across Scotland, enabling an additional 62 staff to be employed this summer until September.

The funding has helped East Lothian Council to recruit an additional six Rangers, who will join the 10 full-time Rangers to help keep the coast safe and offer advice to tourists throughout the summer.

Bridget Jones, NatureScot’s recreation and paths manager, said: “The Better Places Fund supports rangers to promote responsible enjoyment and manage some of the busiest and most popular areas.

“We want to help people have positive and memorable experiences as they visit and enjoy Scotland’s dramatic landscapes of beaches, mountains, lochs and woodlands.

“But as we tackle the climate and biodiversity crises, we have to ensure that the country’s most spectacular locations are valued and cared for, so that they are there for future generations.”

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “For the third consecutive year, East Lothian Council has been fortunate to receive full funding from NatureScot to employ six seasonal Countryside Rangers.

“East Lothian’s coast and beaches in particular are extremely popular destinations in the summer months and our rangers are on hand to balance visitors’ recreational use with the protection of fragile habitats and wildlife.”