Today produced by far my most exciting heraldic find yet - and while a full thread of the day will have to wait, this merits a special entry! Humbie Kirkyard is a beautiful place, with lots to report. And the highlight, by a mile, was this:

In amongst much incredible detail and memento mori, the impaled arms of James Skirven (d1668) and his spouse Margaret Rigg (d1644) are still clearly visible, with perfect detail, and surmounted by helmet and crest:

The inscription reads:

And although I can't be sure of the metals and colours, the arms are: dexter, three pallets, over all on a chevron engrailed, as many buckles; sinister on a saltire between four mullets, a crescent - with the crescent being for difference, I presume.

Not only is this the oldest example of arms I've found, it's also fairly unusual in showing the impaled arms of husband and wife. And it's in excellent condition. But it's in the open air: what can be done to ensure it is preserved? Can anyone help?? @HistEnvScot @LyonCourt