Harrison turns film star for national trust

Six-year-old helps promote great heritage

A Perthshire youngster has joined National Trust for Scotland members in a video campaign to help protect the country’s heritage.

Harrison Bloch (six), from Auchterarder, stars in the film which backs the conservation charity’s efforts in ensuring Scotland’s history and heritage are looked after for future generations to enjoy.

Harrison’s family joined the National Trust for Scotland two years ago following a visit to Castle Fraser.

Since then, the Bloch family have toured Scotland to learn about the country’s history and taking in its amazing landscapes.

The whole family enjoys what the trust membership offers, with Harrison taking on the role of the King of Scotland and the King of England in the immersive battle room at Bannockburn in Stirling with his sister Bayleigh.

Their mum, Anna, is studying the conservation charity as part of her master’s dissertation in tourism and marketing, focusing on the recently opened visitor experience at Glencoe.

Anna said: “Our heritage makes us feel part of something and proud. As a parent I feel strongly about children learning about some of this country’s most famous faces like Rennie Mackintosh and Robert the Bruce and of course being encouraged to appreciate the beauty of Scotland.

“I love that the children are growing up experiencing everything this country has to offer and learning the stories and culture behind it all and being members helps support this.”

Harrison said: “I was nervous at first but really enjoyed filming, even if it did take forever. I’m excited to get back to the parks and go exploring round the castles.”

The campaign comes as the charity continues to deal with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic which has caused a £28 million loss in essential income.

By pledging their support to Scotland and signing up as members, people can enjoy exploring Scotland’s natural and national treasures, while helping the charity continue their vital work to protect them for generations to come.

Mark Bishop, director of customer and cause at the National Trust for Scotland, said: “Our members make everything we do to protect Scotland’s beautiful places possible.

“We have never been more grateful to those who pledge their support to our charity and our work at places like the beautiful Crathes Castle and Mar Lodge Estate.

“Joining the trust does all of that and also gives you the chance to enjoy the incredible landscapes, magical places and unique wildlife that we all love about Scotland.”

See www.nts.org.uk for information on how to become a member.