HLF confirms grant for Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford

Sir Walter Scott's former home in the Scottish Borders will be restored thanks to support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Abbotsford House in Melrose is among four places of historic significance that will share funding of GBP 10.5 million. It will receive a grant of GBP 4.8 million out of the pool.

'HLF's grant will enable restoration of the house and its contents, including fascinating personal items relating to historic figures - such as Rob Roy's sporran and Napoleon's pen case,' the organisation explained.

The funding will also be used to create a new visitor centre, a learning suite and self-catering accommodation at the home.

Welcoming the grant, the Abbotsford Trust said the money will allow it to make good on match-funding pledges from the Scottish government, Scottish Borders Council, Scottish Enterprise, Historic Scotland and a number of private individuals.

Caerphilly's Grade II listed Newbridge Memorial Hall, Tudor house The Walronds in Cullompton, Devon, and Bedfordfordshire's historic gardens at Wrest Park will also be allocated grants from the funding pool.

Carole Souter, chief executive of the HLF, said that all four projects are 'wonderful places of historic importance' and make strong contributions to the economies of their local areas.