Well, his statue.. as English firm work on restoration

WILLIAM Wallace has returned to Scotland – after being sent homeward by the English.

The statue of the Braveheart knight was brought back to the National Monument in Stirling after 10 weeks of restoration in Wigan.

About £260,000 was spent on the project by Stirling Council to ensure BY DOUGLAS BARRIE the 14ft bronze figure is ready for the Wallace Monument’s 150th anniversary celebrations in September.

Restoration firm Lost Art fixed failed structural castings on the statue and sorted out problems with the shield and sword, while the bronze itself was cleaned to halt decay.

The restoration work marked the first time Wallace’s statue was removed from the tower since its unveiling at the monument in 1887.

Damian Liptrot, of Wigan-based Lost Art, said: “It was an honour and a privilege to have been entrusted with the care and repair of such an important national symbol.”

It was a happier journey than the real Wallace’s trip across the border after he was captured in 1305.

Taken to London, he was found guilty of treason against King Edward, hanged, drawn and quartered and his head put on a spike.

Brian Roberts, of Stirling Council, said: “This time, he has returned across the border in peak condition and ready to greet visitors from all over the world.”