A NEW website showcasing the best of local heritage has gone live after six months of development.

The Salt of the Earth Heritage Connections site was launched last month as a hub for locals to view heritage groups and projects in East Lothian.

Jill De Fresnes, project officer, said: “We are so pleased with the website.

“It really reflects the colour and richness of the area’s heritage and history.

“We see it as an important part of the lottery-funded Salt of the Earth project and the legacy we will be leaving when the project finishes later this year.”

The site is an accessible way for the project to develop a heritage network across the Preston Seton Gosford ward, where groups and individuals can connect and share heritage stories, images and videos.

News stories and discoveries are also highlighted, with a group calender offering a quick and easy way to see what is going on in the area.

Jill added: “As it develops further, we are hoping to have a forum for discussion and there is a map highlighting specific areas or sites of interest. This is particularly useful for any potential visitors, who can see what an incredible wealth of heritage there is here: the built heritage, archaeology, natural heritage, as well as stories, art and culture, and we will also be linking up with Visit East Lothian to help promote the area.”

Ed Bethune, of Bethune Heritage, developed the site – Jill added that they were “very lucky to have him”.

Ed said: “The website has been developed over the past six months but has just officially launched.

“We’re aiming to ensure that there is a lasting legacy for the Salt of the Earth Heritage Connections project, so the website and social media channels created during the project will be used to help keep our local heritage groups connected, active and successful in the longer term.

“It’s a really exciting way to empower local heritage and build on the great work that Salt of the Earth has done in Preston, Seton and Gosford.”

To view the new website, visit saltoftheearth heritage.com