Tributes pour in after death of custodian at Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven

Tributes have been paid following the passing of a custodian of a historic medieval fortress in Aberdeenshire.

Jim Wands maintained Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven for more than seven years, initially as a deputy before stepping into a senior role later that same year.

He passed away following a short illness, the heritage bosses confirmed.

A social media statement said: “It is with a heavy heart that we write this post. At the weekend, our Custodian at Dunnottar, Jim Wands, passed away following a short illness.

“Jim joined the team a little over 7 years ago as Deputy Custodian, and stepped up into the role of Custodian later that same year.

“To say Jim was passionate about the Castle would be an understatement and we know many of our visitors who had the good fortune to meet him would have been struck by this.

“We are a close-knit team and the loss of Jim is deeply felt both at Dunnottar and the wider Dunecht Estates, our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly sad time.”

One person commented that Mr Wands was “notorious” for extending his kindness to everyone around him, while another remarked that his “passion” for the castle was fuelled by “pure love”.

The Stonehaven Business Association also paid tribute to the long-time custodian, stating: “Jim was not only a valued committee member of Stonehaven Business Association/Tourism Group and key contributor to Stunning Stonehaven, but also a true gentleman, whose wit, wisdom, kindness and spirit will be greatly missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this terribly sad time.”