Young Scot Awards 2012

Historic Scotland sponsor the 'Heritage Hero' award

Historic Scotland is pleased to once again sponsor the 'Heritage Hero' award which, year after year, pays tribute to those youngsters who deserve recognition for giving their time selflessly to protect, maintain and support the nation’s historic environment.

As part of the Sunday Mail Young Scot Awards 2012, the “Heritage Hero” category joins twelve others in this prestigious annual competition to recognise the best in young people. The competition helps to counter the often negative portrayal of modern youth, by celebrating the unsung and community-spirited efforts of youngsters aged between 11 and 26.

Historic Scotland’s Chief Executive Ruth Parsons said the agency was delighted to be sponsoring the “Heritage Hero” award again this year.

“Our heritage, which is known and celebrated throughout the world, helps define who we are, and forms a key part of our culture,” she said. “It is extremely encouraging to see so many young people with a passion for Scottish history. Their enthusiasm for the stories that reveal so much about the nation’s character and identity, and their desire to share this knowledge with others is an inspiration we can all draw hope from.”

Last year’s “Heritage Hero” winner was Jamie O’Rourke, who developed and conducted tours in Falkirk town centre. Jamie worked with youngsters aged ten to 16 to highlight the town’s heritage, and used his “Ghostly Guides” service to deliver ghost walks using drama and interactive techniques to local people and foreign visitors.

Nominations can be made online at www.youngscotawards.co.uk until February 26th 2012. Three finalists from each category are invited to a lavish prize-giving ceremony on April 26th, at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.