Photo archivists are bringing the past back to life at a Montrose visitor attraction.
Neil Werninck and Nancy Scott are restoring old photographs in a setting which is already full of history.
The pair are working from Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre, transforming damaged or torn photographs into beautifully restored images free of dust, scratches, and other blemishes.
Mr Werninck said: “We have dealt with pictures with quite extensive tears, cuts and stains which can take quite a while to remove but the results can be startling.
“We’re both involved with the air station and have decided to put our old skills back to use to raise funds for the centre.”
They are rekindling a partnership which existed before Mr Werninck moved into semi-retirement in 2016 and sold his Montrose photography studio, which had been in existence since 1884.
A founder member of the Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre, he said the photo restoration service was giving the pair a chance to put their old skills to use.
He said: “Every photo is unique and in the past we’ve seen ripped or torn images being completely transformed.
“It’s amazing what can be done and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to give someone’s photograph a new lease of life. There is also the opportunity to have black and white images put in colour.
“Most of the pictures we restored in the studio were older photos including many wartime images of parents or grandparents that people wanted to put on display.”
Prices will start at £12.
Mr Werninck said: “We’re hoping this will provide another shot in the arm for the museum.
“Whilst it will give the museum a financial boost we’re also looking forward to bringing these memories from people’s past back to life.
“It’s an exciting time for the centre with lots of events and projects currently in the pipeline.”
RAF Montrose became the first operational military aerodrome to be established in the UK in 1913 before closing permanently in 1952.
RAF Montrose trained pilots during the second world war and Commonwealth, Polish, Czech, American, Russian, Turkish, Free French and other Allied nationals all trained there.
To get in touch with the restoration duo email secretary.rafmontrose@gmail.com
