Commemorative plaque scheme recognises historic Scots

Historic figures are to get their own commemorative plaque, under a new national scheme.

Each plaque will celebrate the person's life and achievements and will be placed on their home or on a building synonymous with their achievements.

Members of the public are invited to nominate historic figures on Historic Scotland's website.

A maximum of 12 plaques will be awarded each year and will be decided upon by an independent academic panel.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "We are launching the scheme in the Year of Creative Scotland 2012 and are seeking nominations for historic figures in the arts and creative fields.

"The commemorative plaques will celebrate the achievements of people who lived in Scotland, the links between the person and a building which will also highlight the social and human element of local architecture.

"An annual theme will be formally announced each year, which will guide people to consider nominations within specific industries."