Plaque scheme launched

Monklands residents are being asked for their views on which“significant Scots” should be recognised with commemorative plaques.

Nominations have opened for the national scheme which is being run by Historic Environment Scotland (HES).

Since launching in 2012, the initative has seen a range of influential Scots remembered, including explorers, inventors, artists, poets and politicians.

The most recent round of awards last year saw a number of diverse figures recognised, including abolitionist Frederick Douglass and Christian Maclagan, believed to be Scotland’s first female archaeologist.

Neil Gregory, deputy head of engagement at HES, said:“I’m delighted to announce that our commemorative plaque scheme is once again open for nominations.

“Plaques are a great way of highlighting the important link between people and places, making the connection between individuals and the built environment that shaped their life and work.

“As well as a way of celebrating Scotland’s luminaries, the plaque scheme is an important opportunity to shine a light on those lesser-known figures from Scotland’s history and bring their stories to national consciousness.

“As traditional methods of commemoration have not always best reflected the diversity of Scotland’s population, we’re particularly keen to receive nominations for figures from our minority communities.”

Nominations for this year’s scheme will close on Friday, August 30; for more information, and to submit a nomination, visit the HES website at www. historicenvironment.scot/