A German linguist has joined efforts to promote Doric in the north-east by launching a bid to create a dedicated museum.
Hannah Pennig, who now lives near Turriff, wants to raise thousands of pounds through public support to create a base where locals and tourists can learn about the Scottish dialect and its history.
Mrs Pennig, who has previously worked a the Institute of Low German in her home country, said she was inspired to do her part after falling in love with the region.
Her campaign comes as efforts to promote the dialect across Aberdeenshire ramps up in support.
Academics from Aberdeen University and Scots languages entertainers have already backed a scheme for Aberdeenshire Council to begin teaching it in schools.
Mrs Pennig moved to the area about nine years ago.
She says she wants end the stigma over Doric’s usage.
“I’m from Germany originally, where I worked at the Institute of Low German which basically supported a minority language over there. Doric hasn’t really got something where all the threads come together where it can be promoted,” she added last night.
“Some people seem to be slightly embarrassed by speaking it and I think that’s wrong. It’s part of the heritage here and we should be proud of speaking it.”
The intention is for the Doric centre to be located within the Turriff Museum and Heritage Centre when it moves to a new location in a former municipal building within the town.
The heritage society has already given the scheme its backing.
Mrs Pennig said: “I’ve jumped at the chance to set up something specifically to do with Doric.
“The museum has been very supportive, but we really need more volunteers and help.
“The more we get, the more projects we can do and the more we can achieve.
“We’ve started a Doric book collection and have started a Doric database. So, for example, if someone needs someone like an entertainer for a wedding they can come and get the information they need.
“I’d also like to get some Doric events going in the evenings, like a beginners class to teach non-Doric speakers.”
She hopes to raise at least £2,000 to make the project become a reality.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Mrs Pennig by e-mail at doricneuk@gmail.com
Donations can also be made at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/doric-neuk
