HISTORY and heritage experts have enlisted the help of an Inverclyde aristocrat to unveil a popular annual event. 

Members of Inverclyde Heritage Network will welcome Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart as he launches the third Inverclyde Heritage Fair at the Watt Institution on May 18. 

The event started as a one-off in 2022 but was so successful that it was back last year, and again this year, running in partnership with Inverclyde Council and the Watt Institution. 

Ludo, who is managing director of Ardgowan Estate, will welcome people from all over Inverclyde to the event which will run from 10.30am-3.30pm.  

Heritage Network member Eleanor Robertson said the fair gives people with an interest in the area's history the chance to make connections with like-minded people in their communities. 

She added: "We're delighted to have Sir Ludovic 'Ludo' Shaw Stewart launching the event this year. It shows how much the event is supported within Inverclyde. It will be a really fun day. 

"It's a fantastic opportunity for people who are interested in Inverclyde's history to find out more about it."

At the event, a collection of almost 20 individuals and groups will be on-hand to provide information on many different aspects of Inverclyde's heritage. 

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Visitors will be able to research their family history, find out about war memorials, tap into council and museum archives, and learn more about tourism in Inverclyde. 

Members of Inverclyde's Creative Regeneration group will be there with news about the Glebe building, and people can also find out about the Gaelic language in Inverclyde, and the history of local churches. 

Inverclyde Heritage Group member Cecile Fleming said everything at the event will be focused on Inverclyde. 

She added: "There's so much history and heritage attached to this area, and a lot of people may not be aware of just how much.

"This event will be a great opportunity for people to find out more about where we live and where we're from. 

"We're all very passionate about helping to integrate people into the historical side of things."

Inverclyde Heritage Network is an umbrella group which brings history-focused groups across Inverclyde together. 

It started up in 2018 and members kept in touch during the Covid pandemic in meetings over Zoom. 

Members are always keen to welcome individuals and groups into the network. 

Network member Andrew Pearson says events like the fair help to raise awareness of the importance of the Watt Institution. 

He says it's a 'place for everyone' and helping many of the New Scots families arriving in the area to make connections. 

Andrew added: "This is a fantastic facility and it's essential for Inverclyde. 

"It's helping people from all over the world who have moved to Inverclyde learn more about the area and integrate into society. 

"It's helping to bring people together and welcome people to the area."

 *Inverclyde Heritage Network is keen to set up an oral history group. To find out more email info@inverclydeheritage.network