MuseumplanforPoWcamp

A MBITIOUS PLA NS to open up one of Scotland’s most unique attractions have been unveiled.

The former Second World War prisoner of war camp at Cultybraggan is one of the best preserved in the UK and local volunteers hope to unveil its history.

Over the last few months, work has been ongoing to transform a former guard room into a heritage centre.

The permanent exhibition aims to give visitors an introduction to Cultybraggan and the nearby village of Comrie.

Large display boards have been installed in a Nissen hut at the entrance to the camp, covering events in the last 100 years.

Elaine Davidson, of Comrie Heritage Group, told The Courier they were keen to bring history to life.

She said: “Initially we will be producing self-guided leaflets so people can involve themselves a bit more.

“But the plan is to convert the main guard complex into a permanent museum, where we will have artefacts and displays.

“Hopefully we will get there, but we need more people to put their hands in their pockets, so we have to offer something in the meantime.

This is just the first stage of an extensive programme to make Cultybraggan a popular tourist attraction.

Trustee for Comrie Development Trust, Blair Urquhart revealed further plans for the camp.

He added: “Hut One is the first step on the ladder of the heritage group’s policy of retaining the mixed use of the camp and identifying five or six centres of interest, specifically for heritage development.

“We are looking for buildings that are telling the story of the various uses of the camp since 1941 and one of the huts will eventually become a museum.”

During the official opening of the new Comrie Heritage Centre yesterday, the family of local Victoria Cross recipient John Manson Craig unveiled a display dedicated to their father.

He was awarded the medal for his actions while serving in Egypt with the Royal Scots Fusiliers during the First World War.

Visitors can see the new heritage centre today, between 11am until 4.30pm, as part of an open day.

Picture: Kim Cessford. Eunice Cartwright, left, and Ray Crozier of Cultybraggan Local History Group open the new Comrie Heritage Centre at the former prisoner of war camp.