Heritage Trust in running for heritage award

FORRES Heritage Trust (FHT) have been shortlisted for a national award which recognises contribution to Scotland’s historic environment.

The Scottish Heritage Angel Awards (SHA) category, ‘Caring and Protecting’, highlights the Trust’s “restoration and bringing back into community use of two local historic landmarks, namely, Nelson Tower and The Tolbooth”.

Representatives from FHT will attend the first SHA ceremony, hosted by Sally Magnusson, at the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh on Monday, September 28, where the overall winner of all categories will be announced.

They are up against the Sanday Archaeology Group for their work to preserve archaeological heritage in Orkney, and the Helmsdale Station Volunteers for the restoration of railway station buildings in Sutherland.

“We are delighted to learn that FHT has been nominated,” said trustee, Heather Shaw. “The shortlisting is recognition for all of the contributions made by those who have done, and continue to do, so much for the Trust.

“It would not be where it is without the input of so many people; whether it’s in terms of time or skills or helping out with labour.

“The willingness of all these volunteers has ensured that two well-loved community landmarks are now open for the benefit of locals and visitors alike.”

Local councillor, Lorna Creswell, explained why she nominated the local body for an award.

“FHT have gone from strength-to-strength,” she said. “They have regular weekly commitments to upgrading the fabric of the Tower and the Tolbooth - repairing, plastering, painting, carpeting and refurbishing them so that they are fit for purpose in maintaining our shared heritage.

“In doing so, FHT have turned the historical buildings into attractive places to visit by young and old.

“It’s inspiring so I had no hesitation in nominating them as I feel the whole town and area collectively shares this view.”

The awards, which welcomed well over 80 nominations for ‘Heritage Angels’ highlighting a diverse range of voluntary activities and projects from across the country, will celebrate the contribution volunteers make to Scotland’s historic environment.

Funded by the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, and delivered via a partnership between several of Scotland’s heritage organisations, the nation-wide initiative, acknowledges the benefit that volunteers and groups have in helping to better understand, appreciate and protect Scotland’s heritage and history for current and future generations.

The winners across five categories will be decided by a judging panel made up of broadcaster and writer, Sally Magnusson; Professor John Hume OBE, Chairman of Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland; Dr Peter Burman MBE, Vice Chair of Built Environment Forum Scotland; Harriet Eadie, Chief Executive of Volunteer Centre Edinburgh and Andrew Wright OBE, one of Scotland’s foremost conservation architects.

“The shortlist of heritage volunteers and groups reveals the diverse and vibrant cultural heritage that is held within communities across the country,” said Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Europe and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop.

“It demonstrates the enduring commitment and work that is carried out by them on variety of worthy projects helping to highlight and celebrate Scotland’s wider historic environment.

“My congratulations to all of the ‘Heritage Angels’ shortlisted for these awards.”