Local Man Leslie Merriman is a finalist in a national heritage award. The search to find Scotland’s ‘heritage angels’ revealed  the final shortlist on Wednesday.

Leslie is a finalist in Category C: Best Craftsmanship or Apprentice on a Heritage Rescue or Repair Project. He is the Assistant Works Manager at Historic Environment Scotland and has been nominated for his work with the Orkney Monument Conservation Unit. Leslie served his stonemasonry apprenticeship after joining HES and now mentors new apprentices.

The panel of judges will include:

• author and broadcaster Vanessa Collingridge
• architect and Vice-Chair of Scottish Civic Trust Ed Taylor
• CEO of Volunteer Scotland George Thomas
• Taylor Dickinson, member of the Scotland’s Urban Past Youth Forum

Launched in 2014 with funding from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation (ALWF), and run by the Scottish Civic Trust in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, Archaeology Scotland and the Scottish Government, the Scottish Heritage Angel Awards celebrates both groups and individuals who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to promote, protect and, in many cases, rescue Scotland’s heritage.

John Pelan, Director of the Scottish Civic Trust, said:

“We received many wonderful nominations for individuals and groups right across the country. The scale of their achievements in recording and celebrating local heritage and rescuing historic buildings and sites is truly inspiring”

The winners in all four categories will be announced at the Scottish Heritage Angels Awards ceremony on Monday 16 October at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh.