A GROUP of dedicated volunteers at Bannockburn Visitor Centre has been honoured with a National Trust for Scotland volunteer of the year award at a ceremony in Edinburgh.

The team, which includes 19 volunteers, contributes to the conservation charity through its work with the centre’s learning team. They carry out activities including replica weapon handling sessions, guided tours of the encampments and battle landscape and object handling sessions. The volunteers also work closely with a range of groups in the local community, with families, schools and groups with additional support needs all benefiting.

The enthusiasm and hard work with which all of the volunteers contribute were recognised in their nomination, which noted: “The volunteers work exceedingly hard, give up vast amounts of time and energy to the centre, and are constantly contributing exciting and practical ideas for the continual improvement of a property for which they clearly have a great deal of love. Their passion, knowledge, and hard work are an asset not only to Bannockburn but to the National Trust for Scotland as a whole.”

Awards were presented in categories including gardens, groups, support, outdoor conservation and properties, representing the breadth of volunteer work for the National Trust for Scotland across the country, in conserving and promoting Scotland’s heritage.

The award was presented by National Trust for Scotland chief executive Simon Skinner at a special event in October. Mr Skinner said: “Volunteers are a vital force in protecting Scotland’s heritage, devoting their time and talent to our charity and the wonderful places in our care. I want to say thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers who play such an important role at Bannockburn and at every National Trust for Scotland site across the country.”