Cousland Smiddy is to receive a £35,000 grant from Historic Scotland.

According to The Midlothian Advertiser, the smiddy is one of just a few examples of a working smiddy in Scotland. It also has its associated cottage and tool shed.

Last week, it was revealed by Cabinet Secretary for culture and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop, that the building was to receive an Historic Building Repair Grant. The grant is part of a wider £2.6m funding package.

Ms Hyslop said: "Historic buildings, such as the Cousland Smiddy offer great opportunities for education as well as providing important landmarks in our towns and cities which are key to our identity, community and memories.

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"This is an exciting and worthwhile project and I am delighted that it has been supported through the Building Repair Grants.

"It is important to ensure that historically significant buildings such as Scotland’s oldest working smiddy, a building type which would once have existed in huge numbers, are maintained so future generations can learn about our fascinating history and heritage."

Sheena Irving, Chair of the Cousland Smiddy Trust added: "We are delighted to be supported once again by Historic Scotland, this time in the final stage of our project to preserve Cousland Smiddy.

"Recognition has been given to the historical worth of the smiddy complex, which now, at over 300 years old, still operates as a blacksmithing business.

"The grant will allow us to press forward with our aim of restoring all the remaining buildings and enable us to interpret the work of the rural blacksmiths, and their important position in the life of a village community, to the wider public."

(JP/CD)