The original scale model of the Bell Rock lighthouse which was created by engineer Robert Stevenson, is being sold at auction in London. Every lighthouse across the world that sits in the sea today has been built to Robert Stevensons design and specification. Bell Rock is the highest point of a dangerous reef which lies 11 miles off the coast of Angus. By the end of the 18th century, around six ships a year were being wrecked each winter on its rocks and Stevenson was given the task of erecting a lighthouse. Work began in 1807, but as the rock was only exposed for three hours a day at low water spring tides, it was not completed until 1811. The structure was made of interlocking blocks which were carved on the mainland and reassembled on the site. It remains the oldest rock lighthouse in existence in the British Isles today. Robert Stevenson went on to design a further 17 Scottish lighthouses before retiring in 1843. The tower of Robert Stevensons presentation scale model has been carved from a solid piece of red sandstone cut from the Bell Rock and is over 22 inches tall. It is expected to fetch between £1500 to £2000. Angus Council has refused

to deny or confirm that it is going to bid for the model, which could be displayed at Arbroaths Signal Tower Museum