THE MONTROSE Bamse Project, which is raising £50,000 for a statue of the legendary second world war Norwegian seadog, has commissioned renowned Scottish sculptor Alan Herriot.

Mr Herriot, based at Howgate in Midlothian, has been a professional artist since he graduated from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in 1974.

His works include the 51st Highland Division monument in Breville, Normandy, the Drummer Boy Memorial in Winchburgh, and the Miners Monument at Newton Grange.

Project director Henny King said, “Alan Herriot brings to this project not only his expertise but the enthusiasm and commitment to create a faithful rendition of Bamse, the heroic St Bernard dog whose legend will now live for ever.”

Mr Herriot said last night that he was delighted to have won the commission and he hoped to produce something Montrose would be proud of.

“Bamse was an amazing character and the story of how he was adopted as a wartime mascot by the Norwegian navy is remarkable.

“The bronze sculpture will give a true representation of Bamse.”