Focus on traditional careers

SCOTLAND’S rich architectural heritage — and the skills needed to preserve it — is the focus of an event in Perth.

Organised by the Fife and Tayside Traditional Buildings Forum, the twoday skills event will include demonstrations of stonemasonry, specialist joinery, roof slating and painting and decorating.

Inspiring future generations in skills from the past is a major aim and secondary school pupils from across Perth and Kinross will have an opportunity to try their hands at traditional skills.

Pe r t h a n d K i n ro s s Heritage Trust historic buildings development officer Sara Carruthers said: “The aim is to raise awareness about the value of traditional building skills, the need to address the condition of Scotland’s traditional buildings and the opportunities available locally for owners to get help to do this.”

The event, i n King Edward Street on September 18 and 19, is free of charge and anyone interested in a career in traditional building construction or property owners concerned about their buildings can attend.

There will be an information and materials tent where representatives from Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust, Historic Environment Scotland and Perth and Kinross Council planning department will be on hand to answer queries. Staff from Balfour Beatty will also be available to offer advice about careers in the construction industry.