Sir Mark Jones will take up the role after Sir Moir Lockhead steps down in August

The National Trust for Scotland has announced its new chairman.

Sir Mark Jones will take up the role after Sir Moir Lockhead steps down in August at the end of his four-year term.

A former director of the National Museums of Scotland, Sir Mark oversaw the project to create the Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

He was also director of the V&A Museum in London during its recent £120m renewal programme.

Sir Mark – who is currently chair of the Pilgrim Trust, the Historic Scotland Foundation and the Patrick Allan-Fraser of Hospitalfield Trust - said he was delighted to be taking on his next challenge.

He said: “It has never been more important to understand our history and heritage and to protect our natural environment.

“I am delighted to be working with the National Trust for Scotland which does all of this so well.

“There has been great progress under Sir Moir’s stewardship and I thank him for his contribution to caring for Scotland’s heritage over the past four years.”

Once in post, Sir Mark said he is most looking forward to going to St Kilda. A keen walker, he is also looking forward to exploring the mountains which are in the care of the conservation charity, and visiting properties with his three grandchildren.