Recognition for key collections

In pictures: The collections

A scheme which recognises important works held outside nationally-run museums and galleries has named 10 collections of national significance.

Sites in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bo'ness, Irvine, Alloway, Anstruther, Dumfries, Fraserburgh and Stromness are listed.

Each collection is now able to bid for a share of £1m available to enhance its services and improve access.

The Recognition Scheme - promoted by the Scottish Executive - aims to ensure the works gain a wider audience.

Culture Minister Linda Fabiani announced the first collections from the new project at the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery in Glasgow.

"This is a landmark occasion for Scotland's museums and galleries and the wonderful collections they display," she said.

"I am glad to support this recognition scheme and look forward to seeing increased public access to these collections of national significance."

The recognised collections Hunterian Museum and Gallery, Glasgow Scottish Fisheries Museum, Anstruther Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, Fraserburgh Pier Arts Centre, Stromness Surgeon's Hall Museum, Edinburgh Historic Musical Instruments Collection, University of Edinburgh Archaeology Collection, Dumfries and Galloway Scottish Maritime Museum, Irvine Burns Monument Trust Collection, Alloway Core Collection Scottish Railway Preservation Society, Bo'ness

Among the collections is the archaeology collection of Dumfries and Galloway Museums.

Cllr Sandra McDowall, who chairs the council's education and community services committee, welcomed the inclusion of the local collection which started in the 1800s.

"The collection has great potential to promote interest in and enjoyment of local history and culture," she said.

"We are delighted that the importance of our region's archaeology collections has been recognised in this way.

"Being acknowledged through this scheme will help to increase awareness of the collection and improve our capacity for its care and management."

'Distinguished identity'

Douglas Connell, who chairs the recognition committee which oversees the scheme, said there were stringent standards to be met.

"To achieve recognition status, the applicants had to demonstrate the uniqueness, authenticity, comprehensiveness, and national value of their collection," he said.

"This first round announcement highlights the wonderful diversity of Scotland's collections and we are confident the scheme is recognising the best the country has to offer."

Scottish Museums Council CEO Joanne Orr said the list showed the great variety of collections housed around the country.

"Scotland's museums and galleries house collections that celebrate our valued and distinguished identity and provide a fascinating, educational experience for all those who visit," she said.

"The recognition scheme will contribute greatly to raising standards in collections care, management and public service delivery to the benefit of future museum audiences at home and from abroad."