DESCENDANTS of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Prestonpans and people who bear their name or address are being invited to a series of gatherings in the town to learn about their heritage.

The tales of the brave clans and British army commanders will be recounted during four sessions at The Gothenburg pub in the town.

They aim to mobilise all those who have a link to the famous names to get involved in this year’s re-enactment weekend, when the clan chiefs and representatives of the army will take part in a huge parade through the town.

The first session on Thursday, August 16, will focus on Lord George Murray’s Division, which includes Cameron and Stewart of Appin clans.

The following Thursday will be the turn of the Duke of Perth’s Division, including Clan MacDonald of Clanranald, Keppoch/Glencoe, MacDonell of Glengarry, MacGregor, Perth.

On Thursday, August 30, the evening will look at the Prince’s Division of Atholl, Robertson of Struan, Maclachlan and Jacobite, while on Thursday, September 6, the army regiments of Gardiner (Thorntree), Hamilton, Murray, Cope, Lascelles, Lee and Guise are recounted.

Anyone with a link to the historic names, either through heritage or living on a street named after them, is invited along to the tea-time events, which are all held between 5pm and 7pm.

The Battle of Prestonpans Heritage Trust is planning a maildrop to nearly 700 homes in the town which are linked to the historic battle by address, but people living on streets with the names across the county are also invited to take part.

Street names are Appin Drive, Gardiner Road and Crescent, Thorntree Crescent, Cameron Way, MacGregor Pend, Keppoch Crescent, Glengarry Terrace, Clanranald Avenue, Perth’s View, MacLachlan Gardens, Glencoe Path, Atholl View, Robertson Avenue, Struan Wynd and Jacobite Way.

The trust is aiming to make this year’s re-enactment the biggest yet with a weekend of family fun and entertainment.

To find out more, go to scottishbattlefields.org