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New volunteers come forward to secure future of Thurso Heritage Society





Thurso Heritage Society has played a key role in fostering an appreciation of the town's history.
Thurso Heritage Society has played a key role in fostering an appreciation of the town's history.

The voluntary group dedicated to preserving and promoting Thurso’s rich history is set for a fresh start after new volunteers stepped forward.

It was feared Thurso Heritage Society would have to disband and shut down its operations because of a lack of active members. However, at an extraordinary general meeting this week, several volunteers committed to filling roles within the committee – ensuring that the charity’s work can continue.

The new chairman is Laurence Campbell, who said: “As a born and bred Thursonian I am looking forward to leveraging our collective knowledge and securing much-needed support to ensure that our local heritage remains in the present. Together, we can make a significant impact for the good of the town.

“As someone who has spent my entire life in Thurso, taking on this role feels like a natural progression for me. I am genuinely excited about the prospects that lie ahead.

"This is a pivotal time for Thurso Heritage Society, as we seek to amplify the incredible story of our town and make local heritage a cornerstone of community pride.”

Founded in 1981, the society has played a key role in fostering an appreciation of the history of Thurso and its residents. It has spearheaded projects including the Thurso Interactive website, an oral histories initiative, conservation work, guided walks, illustrated talks and features such as the Donald Swanson, Robert Dick and Mack Mowat memorials.

Since the pandemic, the society had found it increasingly difficult to maintain its regular activities. An inability to recruit fresh faces into the committee heightened the challenge, leading to concerns about the charity’s sustainability.

Some long-standing members, including those in key positions, had to re-prioritise their commitments.

One of those standing down was the long-serving chairman Alan McIvor, who is now vice-chair. He said: “This EGM was not just a meeting – it was a call to action, and I am glad Thurso Heritage Society lives on.

"I must express my thanks to those past, current and now new committee members. Those standing down were a dependable team, and I really appreciated their help.

“For myself, I have wanted to take a back seat for three or four years now after being perhaps the longest-serving chairman, so I am delighted to see new members taking an interest.

"I wish the new committee well in their roles and I’m sure they can help continue the legacy of the society and that more people will support not just them but their town.”

Mr Campbell added: “The commitment shown by new and existing members not only ensures that the society can continue its existing projects but also opens the door for future initiatives that will further enrich the understanding and appreciation of Thurso’s unique history.

"We are optimistic about expanding our activities. Through the collective efforts of its revitalised committee and a supportive community, the society will be well positioned to carry on its invaluable work.”


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