The professional re-enactor is a familiar face in Ayrshire and across the country where he regularly appears at Living History events as a knight in armour or a Scottish clansman.

Hugh’s high profile at hundreds of Historic Scotland events since the 1990s made him a natural choice to be included in the advert. The campaign, which began yesterday, highlights the fantastic range of events and activities taking place at Historic Scotland attractions all over Scotland this summer.

And the best way to attend all these events? Become a member of Historic Scotland. Members can get free entry to more than 70 castles, abbeys and ancient monuments and many of the events throughout the year and joining costs as little as £6 a month (per family).

Hugh said: "As a member of Historic Scotland myself, I know what great value it is for family days out and I am delighted to be featuring in the advert. Bringing history to life is a really important part of the visitor experience. Through costumes, weaponry and re-enactments, we are able to take the historical narrative of a property just that little bit further, giving people the opportunity to actually witness defining events from the past for themselves. "

Historic Scotland highlights in the south west of Scotland include July’s spectacular Clash of the Champions at Caerlaverock Castle which will feature more than 100 costumed performers. Among them will be some of the UK’s best swordsman and archers who will compete for the right to be recognised as undisputed champions.

Rebecca Hamilton, Marketing and Media Manager at Historic Scotland said: "We are pleased with our new advert, as it captures the diverse and exciting events Historic Scotland stages every year. Family membership, at less than £6 a month, is the solution to family days out this summer. It is a great value for money way to experience a fabulous range of activities at our attractions including jousting, falconry, a celebration of the 1940s, a festival of magic and lots of living history events."

The TV advert lasts for 30 seconds and will be screened on ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 throughout June 2007 and is expected to be seen by around three quarters of adults. It gives viewers the chance to receive a complete Historic Scotland information pack, including 2007-08 events guide, sent to them by texting the word “Legends” to 84118. Visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/legends for additional information on the campaign.