Black Watch extension open

A new extension at The Black Watch Castle and Museum was officially opened yesterday by the Provost of Perth and Kinross Dennis Melloy.

The new room has been named after the Queen Mother, who succeeded her father, King George V, as colonel in chief of The Black Watch in 1937.

She held this title until her death in 2002, acting as a link between the regiment and the Royal Family.

The extension was designed by Arthur Stone Architects to complement the 2013 redevelopment of Balhousie Castle, and the building work was undertaken by local firm Balhousie Glazing.

Drew Hay is director of Balhousie Glazing.

He said: “We are delighted to have worked in partnership with The Black Watch to deliver this new extension.

“It has been an exciting time following the project from the planning stage through to the completed build.

“I would like to give thanks to the many talented tradesmen involved in creating this space.

“We wish the castle and museum every success in the future.”

Mr Melloy said: “In recent years, the castle and museum, one of Perth’s key tourist attractions, has seen a tremendous increase in visitor numbers, which is to be welcomed, given the importance of tourism to our local economy.

“It gives me great pleasure to be asked to officially open the extension.”