While the fascinating parts they played during the Second World War will be researched and shared, their role today will be very different, helping their local communities flourish.  

All Aboard the Skylark!

In 1940 Skylark IX, and the ordinary seamen that sailed her, were called to the aid of the stranded Allied troops in Dunkirk. Four times she sailed into the beaches carrying out 150 men - twice the number of people she was built to hold - each time. Years on, the Dunkirk Little Ship sank on Loch Lomond due to her state of disrepair but a campaign by veterans resulted in her being raised by the Royal Navy in 2010.

[quote=Anne Dyer from Skylark IX Recovery Trust]“We are pleased to say that thanks to HLF, recovery through recovery for both the people and the boat is within our grasp and her story will live on for generations to come.”[/quote]

Now thanks to players of the National Lottery, Skylark IX will be transformed into a floating museum using her restoration as a training programme for recovering drug addicts, enabling them to gain qualifications in woodworking skills. Once restored, she will share her story with the help of community volunteers over a short sail along the Clyde ensuring that the incredible history of this little boat will never be forgotten.

Anne Dyer from the Skylark IX Recovery Trust said: “For three years now, we have stood together in our modern-day rescue mission to pay honour to our Dunkirk Little Ship. We are pleased to say that thanks to HLF, recovery through recovery for both the people and the boat is within our grasp and her story will live on for generations to come.”

Cultybraggan

Known as ‘Camp 21’ or ‘Nazi 2’, Cultybraggan was a prisoner of war camp which had the capacity to hold 4,500 inmates. Now owned by the local community and managed by volunteers, 10 of the camp’s Nissen huts will be converted into high-quality self-catering accommodation with an eleventh restored as a common room displaying the history of the site.

Andrew Reid of Comrie Development Trust said: “We have already had great support from HLF in developing designs for the planned accommodation. This funding will bring lasting community benefit to the village and area through visitors and employment."