Wanlockhead Museum to close early

Trustee Ed Hunter said that the current economic climate, high cost of transport fuel, poor weather, Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the Olympic and Paralympic Games had all hit visitor numbers. Numbers coming to see the only lead mine in Scotland which is open to the public have been 20 to 30 per cent down in 2012.

Ed added: “The number of visitors here in October has never been very good. It hasn’t even covered our overheads.

“But this place remains an important contributor to the economy of Wanlockhead.

“It is an important piece of industrial heritage for Scotland.

“During the close season we will be working on new, interesting attractions which will launch next spring.”

Despite its early closure this year, the museum’s popularity was illustrated last weekend when over 150 people attended the two-day Doors Open event run in collaboration with the Wanlockhead and Leadhills Railway.

Visitors took a tour of Lochnell Mine and the Period Cottages, visited the Miners’ Library and took a trip on the Railway, all free of charge.

For more on this story pick up a copy of the Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.