Louis makes history
Historian and longstanding Aberfoyle resident Louis Stott has received an award from the British Association for Local History.
The honour was of one of the association’s six UK-wide awards for personal achievement for local historians, with Louis the single Scottish recipient for 2017.
Local historians who have made significant voluntary contributions to the subject are honoured by the BALH Awards for Personal Achievement.
Alan Simpson, the Lord-Lieutenant of Stirling and Falkirk, presented the award and paid tribute to Mr Stott’s long-tanding voluntary effort
He said:“Louis has made an extraordinary contribution to local history over very many years by carrying out rigorous research into different aspects of local history and publishing his findings in an interesting and accessible manner.
“In addition he has written books on Scottish history and literature and is always only too glad to pass on his knowledge through lectures, discussions, letters or his blog. For Louis to receive this award from the British Association of Local History is a well deserved recognition and endorsement of his dedication to local history in this area.”
Mr Stott said:“My interest in local history began in Watford when I set up Exploring Hertfordshire.
“Latterly this beautiful area has given me a rich vein of material to explore and describe.
“Receiving an award which does not bring any tasks or obligations is a relief since it will allow me to continue my efforts in local history.”
Mr Stott is the author of a number of books on Scottish history and literature including ‘Scottish History in Verse’, an anthology of over 200 poems and songs marking the glories and tragedies of Scottish history.
He has collaborated with the Stirling library service and the Forestry Commission to produce a book on the Aberfoyle slate quarries and on the day of the ceremony he met walkers from Callander Ramblers to talk about the history of the site.
The event was attended by a large number of friends and family as well as members of Loch Ard History Group and Callander Ramblers, who were celebrating their 30th anniversary.
One of the major areas he was previously involved with was The Quality of Life Experiment in Dumbarton. In 1974 it was leading-edge practice with a strong focus on people engaging in planning and organising major events.