The Set in Stone project has involved recording and conserving the site of Old St Conal's Kirkyard which is believed to date back to the 9th Century and has created a geology trail which focuses on the geological features between Kirkconnel and Wanlockhead.

The Society acknowledges the dedicated hard work of its staff and volunteers over the past 18 months in attracting this major funding package into Upper Nithsdale. The Heritage Lottery Fund, Leader + Dumfries & Galloway through European Funding, Scottish Natural Heritage, Solway Heritage through the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme, Dumfries & Galloway Council and Historic Scotland have all awarded various funding packages.

Commenting from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Colin McLean, Manager for Scotland, said:
“This is a great project. It shows how local heritage can be a catalyst for lots of different activities. The conservation of the Church and the construction of a geology trail will provide learning opportunities for local primary and secondary schools, training opportunities for volunteers, and opportunities for all the local community to explore and enjoy the history on their doorstep. Kirkconnel Parish Heritage Society is to be congratulated on its commitment to making heritage more accessible and we wish every success with the project.”

The conservation and restoration of Old St Conal's Kirkyard has preserved the numerous carved stones which were found on the site and has safeguarded the visible and subsiding headstones. A number of the carved stones collected can be viewed in the on-site stone shelter where they are housed.

The Trail is approximately 15 miles long and is way-marked by a series of ‘standing stones’ constructed from local materials that depict the geology of the area. The way-markers give directions and interpret the geological features, linking up the communities of Kirkconnel and Wanlockhead and encouraging tourists into the area. A school educational pack will also be developed to focus on the natural heritage which exists on the pupils’ doorstep.

Society Treasurer, Jacky Wilson said:
“It is an exciting time. I am really pleased not just for the Society but also for all of the communities in Upper Nithsdale which will undoubtedly benefit from the outcomes of this Project. This is an opportunity for groups and businesses to gain from the efforts of a community-led organisation attracting major funding into the area.”

For further details please contact the Base on (01659) 66002 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it