THREE new faces are starting work at the East Lothian centre that celebrates the birth of Scotland’s national flag.

Michael Turnbull, Emily Armatage and Kenneth Stewart will all be helping out at the Flag Heritage Centre, located to the rear of Athelstaneford Church.

Prolific author Mr Turnbull becomes a trustee of the centre, which tells the story of the Battle of Athelstaneford, which is the origin of the Saltire as the national flag.

The Longniddry-based writer is currently revising his book Saint Andrew: Scotland’s myth and identity, with a new edition coming out this year.

Mrs Armatage, who lives at nearby Kilduff Farm, is session clerk at Athelstaneford Church.

She takes over the role of trust custodian from Charlie Blair and will be ensuring the Flag Heritage Centre is open during the season.

Mr Stewart, from Edinburgh, is a former office bearer for the St Andrew Society and takes over as trust treasurer from Malcolm Duncan.

Chairman David Williamson said: “It is heartening to be able to welcome such enthusiastic and experienced people to the team.

A trust-sponsored school storytelling project is continuing, with professional storyteller Angie Townsend arranging to take the tales of St Andrew and the Saltire into King’s Meadow Primary School, Haddington. This will give youngsters an insight into the traditional origins of Scotland’s flag, in which a cross appeared in the sky above a ninth-century battle fought near the village, inspiring the Scots/Picts to victory.