Royal visit sundial gets shine back

The commemorative sundial in Loanhead Memorial Park is now back in place after being cleaned up and restored.

Midlothian firm Mactaggart Scott offered to carry out the work, which involved straightening and refurbishing the sundial.

Technical service and support manager Ross Perfect said: “Mactaggart Scott actually gifted the sundial to the community so we used the original drawings to refurbish it.”

Mr Perfect said the firm’s chairman, Richard Prenter, was keen to help fund the project after hearing the historic memorial was the subject of a police investigation in May, when it was stolen from its plinth.

The sundial, unveiled to commemorate a visit to Loanhead by the Queen 50 years ago, was mysteriously returned two weeks later. The ornate sculpture was taken down for its makeover in August.

Midlothian Council’s commercial services spokeswoman, Councillor Wilma Chalmers, said: “We are delighted to see the sundial back in its place and looking as good as new. Many thanks to Mactaggart Scott for a fantastic job.”