SECURITY HAS been boosted at Glamis Castle in the wake of one of the world’s biggest art robberies.

Staff revealed yesterday they have been spurred into beefing up protection of the property’s priceless artefacts after thieves pulled off the daring snatch of a Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece from Drumlanrig Castle, near Dumfries.

The raiders behind the theft of Madonna with the Yarnwinder, valued at up to £50 million, have not been caught since grabbing the painting last month.

This worries guardians of the collection at Glamis, the childhood home of the Queen Mother and birthplace of Princess Margaret.

Castle administrator David Adams explained, “We are increasing security at Glamis following the blatant robbery at Drumlanrig and in light of the fact that those responsible have not been apprehended.”

He spoke as high-tech equipment arrived at the castle as part of the drive to heighten security, following talks with police.

While not able to reveal too many details of the work involved to deter thieves, Mr Adams said some of it would be noticeable immediately.

More cameras will be installed around the castle and “visitors will be much more aware of the fact they have been photographed as they come and go.”

“Visitors to the castle will notice the extra security and I hope will understand the reasons for it,” Mr Adams said.

Staff are on a state of increased vigilance and more radios will be issued to improve communications, allied to a new security-management system.

Mr Adams continued, “If anything happens, the system we have in place means there will be a quicker reaction to the incident from us and the police than before.

“The steps we are taking are aimed at making it difficult for people to steal things from us.

“If people do feel inclined to steal things, it will be noticed immediately.”

The castle is a member of the Great Houses of Scotland group and Mr Adams is aware that partners Blair Castle and Scone Palace, in Perthshire, are also taking similar precautions.

The new measures are protecting hundreds of years of history and, at Glamis, items that are big and small.

Mr Adams said, “The castle is full of all sorts of interesting things, which is part of the heritage of Glamis and makes it what it is.

“Every item is a treasure and irreplaceable.”

The improved security comes at a cost, but it is one the administrator is happy to pay.

He added, “Glamis hasn’t had any problem with theft and there aren’t many entrances and exits, but we don’t want to be complacent.”