A team of leading businessmen and politicians has been assembled to turn Perth into a major tourist destination and strengthen its position on Scotland’s cultural trail.
The new trust, Culture Perth and Kinross, will take responsibility for the museum and libraries with members tasked on looking at ways of improving arts, heritage and cultural events.
The group, to be led by House of Lords member Charles Kinnoull, will also play a key role in Perth’s City of Culture bid.
On Friday, members unveiled their first programme, a collaboration with the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, Abertay University, the Royal Scottish Academy and the Stills gallery.
This summer, Perth Museum and Art Gallery the trust’s flagship venue will host an exhibition on childhood toys and games, using artefacts from the museum’s permanent collection.
A follow-up exhibition will bring things up-to-date with a display of video games and digital toys.
The programme has been unveiled ahead of the trust’s official launch on April 1.
Mr Kinnoull said: “While Culture Perth and Kinross officially comes into being at the start next month, the launch of this new programme this evening really sets out the direction the trust is heading in.
“We start with a tremendous heritage both on the museums and libraries side. We have very strong collections and Perth and Kinross is home to the very first public lending library. We also have a staff team who are of exceptional quality.”
Provost Liz Grant, who helped launch the new programme at Perth Concert Hall, said: “We are very fortunate to have a recognised collection of national significance at Perth Museum and Art Gallery.
“Culture Perth and Kinross’s programme highlights this collection while working together with partners to bring complementary exhibits which help shine a new light on the area.”
THE MEMBERS:
Charles Kinnoull is a cross-bench member of the House of Lords. A qualified barrister, he spent 25 years working for Hiscox Group, the specialist international insurer.
James Findlay QC has stayed in Perthshire for over 10 years. He is currently practising as both an advocate in Scotland and as a barrister in England and Wales, specialising in local government, planning, environmental and licensing matters. He is also chair of Findo Gask Community Association.
Simon Howie is based in Dunning. He has a range of manufacturing and service companies which employs over 400 people. He is best known for his butchers business.
Councillor Andrew Parrott was born in London and graduated from Aberdeen University before starting a career in the British Army.
Councillor Ian Campbell was brought up in Glasgow and was a senior manager for Cadbury Ltd.
Councillor Bob Band is depute provost and convener of the lifelong learning committee. He also sits on the Perthshire Public Art Trust and the Perth Theatre Redevelopment Project Board.