Resplendent in winter sunshine, the mausoleum is nearing the final stages of restoration with only some minor works to be completed in the Spring.

Fine autumn weather allowed rapid progress on site, with the glazed stars in the roof being replaced (all 48 of them), the walls made watertight and new doors were constructed and fitted. Inside, the debris and guano was removed and the walls gently cleaned and allowed to dry out. The perimeter walls and railings around the building were found to be in poor condition, so this has involved additional work which will continue when the weather improves.

Once the contractors work is completed, the Friends will move in to install interpretation boards and improve signage for visitors. The biggest voluntary task will be painting the six hundred and seventy two railings around the mausoleum, and we are inviting everyone to come along and help us complete the job. 

“PAINT A RAILING” days will take place on the following dates:-

Sunday 14th April - 10am until 4pm

Sunday 28th April - 10am until 4pm

Saturday 11th May - 10am until 4pm

Sunday 12th May - 10am until 4pm

Everone is welcome. The track from the A68 trunk road will be open (see our Find It page for details) so that volunteers can arrive by car or bike and park in the new car park. The track is only accessible from the south, if you are travelling from the north pull into the lay-by opposite the Holiday Park and turn around when it is safe to do so. We will provide painting materials and safety equipment, you should wear suitable clothes. If it rains (which it sometimes does in the Borders) we will not be painting.

If everything goes to plan we expect to complete all the works by early summer. Watch this space for details of the official opening and new access arrangements.