AN INVESTIGATION is underway after vandals caused tens of thousand pounds worth of damage to a 17th century stone mausoleum at a popular tourist attraction on the boundary of the Scottish Borders and Midlothian.
Soutra Aisle is a Scheduled monument which is situated on the site of a 12th century monastery and hospital on the B6368 just off the A68.
The Monument was restored in 1999 and has been free from damage until May 2022 when stones were dislodged from the roof and the information boards disfigured by vandals.
On Saturday July 22 vandals again removed many stones from the roof and severely damaged the information boards and the supporting structure.
Repairs are likely to cost tens of thousands of pounds for which funds must be raised.
Fala and District Historical Society maintain a watching brief on the Aisle however as a Charity have no funds for repairs.
A spokesperson for the Fala and District Historical Society said: “ Clearly the damage caused has taken a considerable effort although no tools are evident other than large stones.
“It is impossible to understand the satisfaction obtained from such activity and as far as we are aware there is nobody who bears any malice towards the Society.
“We have informed HES and they may be able to provide some funding for repairs and we are setting up a special bank account for repair funds to which donation can be made.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Police received a report of damage to a historical monument just off the B6368 on Saturday, 22 July, 2023.
“Enquiries are at an early stage and ongoing.”
The History Society was involved in the restoration of the Aisle in 1998/2000. Since that time they keep an eye on the site and have open days when experts are present to provide detailed information to visitors.
This year these days will be August 26-28 and September 9-10.
The Society has regular meeting in the Fala Hall where they have speakers on relevant subjects relating to the area’s history.
They also have a website falahistsoc.org.uk where details may be found.
Anyone wishing to donate can send a cheque made out to Fala Soutra & District History & Heritage Society to treasurer Dr NJ Martin 8 Crichton Mains, Pathhead,EH37 5UY.
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