I heard today that after a long time Historic Scotland have agreed to change all references to Maeshowe to the correct (Orcadian) spelling, rather than the "Maes Howe" spelling they have used since the early 1980s. The one word spelling correctly relates to the Orcadian pronunciation of the name (where there is no pause between Maes (pronounced "Maze") and howe. They are also bowing to local pressure and will revert to referring to the Ring of Brodgar, rather than the "Ring of Brogar". Apparently their decision on the way they refer to sites depends on Ordnance Survey maps - who are notorious for completely messing up Orcadian names. I wonder if they will ever admit to making up Gurness - a nonsensical corruption of Aikerness? -- Sigurd Towrie Blackhall - Kirbister - Stromness - Orkney Heritage of Orkney: www.orkneyjar.com Home: sigurd@orkneyjar.com Work: sigurd.towrie@orcadian.co.uk