Kinloss man recognised as 'heritage hero' at Stonehenge

TV HISTORIAN Sir Tony Robinson today bestowed a unique honour on a Kinloss resident for his tireless work in keeping the UK’s heritage alive during the pandemic.

The presenter unveiled a display at Stonehenge to celebrate eight "unsung champions of heritage".

The stones were lit up with images of representatives of eight charities from across the UK, including the chief executive of Moray's "Wild Things", Luke Strachan.

The historic takeover of Stonehenge is the first time the 5,000-year-old stones have been dedicated to individual members of the public.

These include Luke (34) and his work for the Findhorn-based Wild Things’ Silver Saplings project.

Wild Things, set up in 2003, brings nature-based experiences and environmental education to people from all walks of life and all ages in the local community.

Its four-year Silver Saplings project uses the natural environment to tackle isolation, loneliness and mobility in vulnerable older people, including care home residents.

Sir Tony said: "I love the fact that Stonehenge is being lit up as a tribute to some of the country’s key project workers and volunteers, letting the public know about the hard work they’ve been doing to keep our heritage accessible to everyone using National Lottery funding.

"Without the graft and tireless effort of these wonderful people, our much-loved heritage would be more at risk than ever this year."

Current restrictions mean Wild Things has had to adapt programmes this year but it has still managed to work with local schools and Moray Council, bringing outdoor learning to children and sending regular nature activity packs and video content to care homes across Moray and the Highlands.

Wild Things is principally funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, The Robertson Trust, The Beatrice Partnership Fund and SSE's Highland Community Development Fund.