£19million Lews Castle museum and hotel to be opened by Sturgeon

Nicola Sturgeon is to officially open the £19 million Lews Castle museum and hotel in Stornoway.

Western Isles Council said the First Minister undertake the honours at the grand opening of Western Isles Council’s flagship project on Monday March 6.

A council spokesman said: “The First Minister will officially open the museum and castle at noon on March 6.”

During a tour the rescued castle Ms Sturgeon will view a display of six world-famous Lewis Chessmen pieces which have returned to the island of their discovery.

Also attending are representatives from the main funders including the British Museum, National Museums Scotland, Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland, HIE and Bòrd na Gàidhlig.