West Highland Way walkers issued warning over counterfeit souvenir stampbooks

West Highland Way walkers have been warned to be wary of counterfeit souvenir stampbooks being sold in Milngavie.

The WHW “passport” allows walkers to collect stamps along their journey.

The West Highland Way Trust said some people have been left “very disappointed” after accidentally purchasing the fakes.

The charity said ink from the stamps does not dry properly in the “poor quality” knock-offs.

Walkers said the stamps on the counterfeit keepsake turn into a “mess”.

The Trust, which has been set up to fund the maintenance of the 96-mile trail, said proceeds from the sale of the official passports go toward the trail’s upkeep, but money from counterfeits does not.

The charity said it has already taken action to stop more walkers falling victim to the fake keepsake.

“It has come to our attention that fake/counterfeit versions of the West Highland Way passports have been being sold over the last few weeks…in Milngavie,” the Trust said on Friday.

“This came to light because we started to receive complaints from several sources about the quality of the passports, although nothing had been changed in the production of the official product.”

“We are very sorry to hear that some walkers have purchased a fake version of the passport, believing that they are supporting the WHW when, in fact, this is not the case. The poor quality of the fake product has also left people very disappointed, as the ink from the stamps does not dry properly.”

They said the biggest difference with the fake product is the “quality of the materials”, particularly the paper, print colours, and lanyard.

“We would like to reassure all WHW supporters that action has been taken to stop this,” the Trust said.

“If you have bought one of the fake products, you can find advice on what to do from Citizens Advice Scotland.”