A stalwart group of Moray volunteers have launched a crowdfunding campaign in a bid to complete the restoration of a historical landmark.
The Cullen Past and Present Volunteer Group has set an ambitious target for themselves of creating a network of paths to lead to the summit of the town’s Castle Hill.
Members intend to erect a flagpole at the top to hoist the flag of the Royal Burgh’s coat of arms, which depicts the Virgin Mary and child above the image of a dog, at the stunning locale.
The hill is steeped in history and was the scene of the visceral Battle of Bauds in 962AD between the Vikings and native Scots.
It was also the place where Robert the Bruce’s wife, Elizabeth de Burgh, died and where the Duke of Cumberland’s army massed before defeating Bonnie Prince Charlie at Culloden.
Hard-working volunteers have cleared gorse from the hill and are committed to putting up information boards about its past.
Group member, Steve Horrocks, said: “It’s very historical. There are mentions of it going all the way back to the Vikings – the Picts were probably there before that though, it’s definitely the sort of position they would use.
“It has seen some action in its time. It would be great to provide seats and paths for people to enjoy it properly again.”
Three decades of neglect had led to the summit becoming inaccessible due to overgrown vegetation.
It is estimated the project will cost £16,000 to complete. However, the handyman skills of members will be used to reduce that sum.
Earlier this month, the group landed £2,000 from Tesco towards the restoration.
Their £4,000 online appeal was only launched yesterday morning and they have already reached almost a quarter of the total.
Group chairman Dennis Paterson said: “We’re appealing to the public to help us progress and ultimately complete the work we are doing.
“Local residents have been very generous already, and that is much appreciated, but we know a lot of people outside Cullen come to visit and this is a great way to allow them to be involved in helping.”
Donations can be made online at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/castle-hill-project until March 6.
