Innovative technology used at the National Trust for Scotland’s hugely-successful Culloden Centre near Inverness is in the running for another prestigious award.

The centre's ground-breaking hand-held battlefield guides have been nominated for a Scottish Thistle Award for Innovation. The Scottish Thistle Awards take place in Edinburgh on 3 October 2008.

Developed by Inverness-based Zolk-C, the devices provide character accounts, archaeological evidence, and real-life sound effects which are triggered automatically as visitors walk across the historic moor. They help to create an interactive experience, which does not detract from the authenticity of the site.

The device already took the top spot in the ‘Use of Technology’ category at the prestigious Museums and Heritage Awards for Excellence in May this year.

This nomination is the latest recognition of the innovation and fantastic visitor experience offered by the £9.5 million project to revamp the battlefield and visitor centre. The new centre opened to the public in December 2007 and has established itself as a must-see destination in the Highlands.

Culloden General Manager, Deirdre Smyth said:

“The battlefield guide is a prime example of the innovative and exciting approach the Trust took to its Culloden project. This technology really adds to the visitors’ experience and it’s fantastic to see that innovation being recognised with another award nomination.”