A MANAGER at Historic Environment Scotland (HES) who was at the centre of a row after they allegedly “twerked” in front of Hollywood actor Martin Compston has been sacked, according to reports.
An investigation into the senior leader’s behaviour was launched by the heritage body in October when the Line of Duty star was left feeling “uncomfortable” following the incident at a corporate event at Edinburgh Castle in 2023.
Rod Stewart’s wife, Penny Lancaster, was also reportedly left upset after the incident occurred at a work event, according to reports.
Witnesses reportedly claimed a senior HES manager became drunk and sat on a guest’s knee before standing up and twerking in front of Compston.
It was also claimed the senior figure also posed for a picture with Lancaster and referred to them both as “two dumb blondes together”.
In October it was reported that a complaint against the HES boss is said to have been upheld, but it was not known then what sanction was taken.
It has been reported that a separate unrelated complaint was made against the same manager the following month.
Multiple sources at the crisis-hit HES have said that the manager was dismissed this month, according to The Herald.
There was reportedly some sympathy among some at the heritage body for the manager, with sources telling The National’s sister title that some believed the investigation into their behaviour was a “witch-hunt”.
A HES spokesperson said: “As a matter of policy, HES does not comment on individual personnel matters.”
It comes after Ronnie Hinds was appointed interim chair of HES by the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic, Màiri McAllan, on Tuesday.
HES looks after more than 300 historic buildings and sites including Edinburgh and Stirling castles, and Glasgow Cathedral.
“Such responsibilities need to be matched by the highest standards of governance and behaviour by those charged with leading the organisation,” Hinds said following his appointment.
“I am honoured to be invited by the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic to play a part in ensuring that these standards are met.
“As interim chair, I look forward to working with Board members and the staff of HES to deliver the changes and improvements identified in the recent independent review of organisational culture and structure.”
