THE National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has issued an "SOS" call to the public as it seeks £2.5million amidst furore over cuts plans.

The heritage body plans to shed more than 500 jobs and mothball properties for up to two years.

The blueprint — which has attracted criticism and concern — was drawn up in response to a £28m cash shortfall blamed on lockdown closures.

Now NTS is calling for members, donors and the general future to "Sve Our Scotland".

It is hoped that, together with other measures, the emergency appeal "will ensure the continued protection of the properties and cultural heritage in its care".

These include Crathes Castle in Aberdeenshire, Inverewe Garden in Wester Ross, Mar Lodge Estate in Braemar and Culzean Castle in Ayrshire.

Without the funds, NTS — which also owns Bute House, the First Minister's official residence — says sites will be mothballed "or worse still, sold to private owners".

This includes Culloden battlefield, Charles Rennie Mackintosh's Hill House and more.

Stuart Brooks, NTS head of conservation, said: “The Trust touches millions of lives every year and we plan to go on doing that well past our centenary in 2031 and beyond.

"We exist to benefit everyone in Scotland, whether they are visiting a property and learning about Scotland’s history, gaining valuable experience through volunteering on a work camp or climbing a mountain and feeling awesome.

"Many of the places we care for would continue to exist but that doesn’t guarantee people will continue to access, learn and enjoy them in the way they do now.

"That’s the value and the purpose of the Trust and why Scotland would be a poorer place without the work we do.”

It costs NTS around £1m a week to "ensure the places in its care are protected".

This includes caring for livestock and plant collections.

It says its reserves will only cover operational costs for six months but its activities are worth almost £300m a year to the economy.