The great news is that the clearing of Rait Castle and the removing of the growth from the walls is finally underway.

The first part of the work - clearing the immediate surroundings - was undertaken on 22nd   and 23rd April by volunteers working with professional foresters provided by the Dowager Countess Cawdor.

During the course of that work we uncovered two remnants of barmkin wall, still nine foot high (see above left) but hitherto obscured. There were also the remains of a confusing number of other walls, some presumably outbuildings, one perhaps the chapel of St Mary of Rait, and these will be cleared as part of the next phase.

The all important removal of growth from the walls should happen shortly (May or June)

It is now possible for Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments Scotland to come in and survey the site though this will probably be done once the other wall remnants are revealed.

Many thanks for reading this far and for any support you can offer!

This campaign enjoys the support of the following organisations:

The Highland Buildings Preservation Trust

The Scottish Castles Association

The Nairnshire Committee of the Highland Council