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Incredible pictures show prominent 80ft Elgin landmark being given a multi-coloured makeover

Work on the Duke of Gordon monument is expected to be finished next week.

Workers pictured carrying out the work. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson
Workers pictured carrying out the work. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

Drone images have revealed the remarkable work taking place to raise the profile of a famous Elgin landmark.

For nearly two centuries, the 80ft Duke of Gordon monument has stood proudly as the highest point in the town on Ladyhill.

Last year, Moray Council was given planning permission to remove the existing white lights on the the Ladyhill monument in Elgin.

They planned to replace them with “near identical” LED fittings that change colour.

Duke of Gordon monument pictured. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

Everyday, countless people pass through Elgin town centre with the monument in the distance.

Today, workers from contractors McDonald & Munro could be seen on the top of the monument with abseiled ropes and harnesses carrying out the work.

Work is expected to be finished next week.

Going forward, the Ladyhill monument could be lit up to mark local and national events.

Watch drone video:

Pictures of the work

<br />McDonald & Munro rope technicians Matthew Macmillan and Darren Robertson carrying out the work. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson
It is certainty high up there when working on top of the monument.
The lighting being added. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

McDonald & Munro director Miguel Gomez is happy to help make sure the A-listed landmark is lit up again.

He said: “We have here working all week on the monument.

“The LED system has 70 preset programs which ensures it automatically lights up on special occasions such as Remembrance.

“I recall first doing the lighting for the monument around 20 years ago.

“This is now our fourth time being up at the top of the monument and it will be good to see the iconic landmark lit up again.”

The monument pictured from above. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson
The Duke of Gordon monument looking down on us. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson
Drone shot showing the monument and Elgin town centre. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson
The landmark will be able to be lit up automatically. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

Who was the Duke of Gordon?

The Ladyhill column was built in honour of George Gordon, who was the fifth and final Duke of Gordon.

The nobleman, who inherited Gordon Castle in Fochabers from his father, was born in Edinburgh. He was a professional soldier, rising to the rank of general.

George Gordon himself established the Gordon Chapel in Fochabers, where there is a memorial tablet dedicated to him.

He was buried at Elgin Cathedral after his death in 1836. The monument was erected in 1839.

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