June is Pride month and events such as Pride Glasgow and Edinburgh Pride, this Saturday (25th June), will be celebrating the history of gay rights and related civil rights movements.
Pride is a great way to encourage young people to feel comfortable to talk about their sexuality and gender identity, especially as at Childline we have delivered more than 4,000 counselling sessions to young people in Scotland and across the UK over the last year with worries about these issues.
Among these concerns, young people spoke to trained counsellors about experiences of coming out; questioning their sexuality or gender identity; gender dysphoria; discrimination and prejudice to sexuality or gender identity; and self-acceptance.
It can be a worrying time for young people who are facing these concerns, and it can be tough for parents and carers to know how to help.
One way for parents and carers to help their children feel confident to speak up is by simply having a conversation with them. Just by having a chat, or perhaps looking at some of the advice on the Childline or NSPCC websites, parents can help give young people the confidence to be proud of who they are.
Childline is also here for them. They can speak to a trained counsellor over the phone on 0800 1111 or via email or on a 1-2-1 chat via the Childline website.
Depute Lord Provost Cllr Lezley Cameron and Keith Brown, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans, joined veterans and city residents to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Edinburgh on Saturday (JUNE 24th).
Hundreds lined the streets as the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums led a parade along George Street, with Legion Scotland standard bearers and veterans taking part.
Cllr Cameron addressed the crowd in St Andrew Square, before a concert featuring both bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Fiona Liddle, Jack Hinks and Maria Townley.
The event, formerly known as “Veterans Day” was a chance to show appreciation and support for the work of the Armed Forces community. The city’s events were organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.
Cllr Cameron, whose father and uncle were in the Armed Forces, said: “Today’s event brought back thoughts and fond memories of family members and loved ones who have served.
“It gives Edinburgh the opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, recognising and celebrating the outstanding contribution of those who serve and have served.
“Armed Forces Day acknowledges the personal sacrifices they make and have made to defend the UK and its interests. All of us owe an incredible debt of gratitude to these brave men and women who are the ultimate protectors of our peace and security and our way of life.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s remarks at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting Press Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, yesterday:
It is an extraordinary and moving experience to be here in Rwanda today. A country that experienced some of the worst horrors of the 20th century in recent memory, and now finds itself with a thriving social and economic life and near-universal primary education.
Today, Rwanda is hosting leaders representing two-thirds of the world’s population, stretching from the remotest islands of the Pacific to the southern tip of Africa.
Rwanda was never a British colony – it joined the Commonwealth of its own volition in 2009, recognising the benefits that come from being part of a progressive alliance representing two thirds of the world’s population and some of its fastest-growing economies.
As many British Prime Ministers before me – and of course both her Majesty the Queen and the Prince of Wales – have recognised, there are few forums more quietly important for our nation’s peace, prosperity and global influence.
We benefit from the incredible Commonwealth advantage – the ‘fertilizer’ I talked about yesterday – of shared language and institutions, which opens doors and cuts the costs of doing business.
We want to seize those opportunities, and that’s why I announced this week major new British investments in green infrastructure projects, as well as trade schemes designed to break down the barriers to doing business.
This is where the UK is positioning ourselves post-Brexit, in close alliance with our European neighbours but also deepening our ties with old friends in Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific.
More trade, more commerce brings prosperity and stability to other countries, but it also cuts costs for British consumers and opens opportunities for UK businesses – jobs and growth at home.
Unfortunately, that global prosperity and stability is being threatened by Vladmir Putin’s unprovoked assault on Ukraine.
Many of the countries represented here in Kigali today find themselves bearing the brunt of Putin’s folly, their populations brought closer to poverty by spiralling food and energy costs.
I know of course, and deeply appreciate, that many families and businesses in the UK have been hit hard as well by the rising cost of living.
That is why in our country the Chancellor has introduced an unprecedented package of financial support to support the most vulnerable households.
But we should also recognise the challenges around the world.
The UN estimates that an additional 48 million people will be pushed into acute hunger this year – that is, to the point of starvation – caused by climate change and post-pandemic supply shortages but also by the war in Ukraine.
I spoke to President Zelenskyy last week in Kyiv last week about how we can unblock Russia’s blockade of Ukraine’s grain exports.
But today we are also announcing a new £372 million package of UK aid.
That funding will support the UN’s emergency response in the hardest-hit countries, as well as providing cutting-edge science partnerships to look at drought-resistant crops and new agricultural techniques.
And as I go tomorrow night to the G7 in Germany we will also commit to looking at what more richer countries can do to bring down global commodity prices and increase food supplies to get the world economy back on track and stick up for the freedoms in which we all believe.
Labour MSPsattend Jerba Campervans’ Employee Ownership Day staff event
THE SCOTTISH Labour leader pitched in to celebrate the 10th Employee Ownership Day (EO Day) at a fun-filled afternoon with staff at a leading campervan converter yesterday.
East Lothian based Jerba Campervans, a 100% employee-owned business since 2018, welcomed Anas Sarwar MSP along with fellow MSP Daniel Johnson, before downing tools and hosting a staff barbeque.
EO Day (Friday 24 June) raises awareness of the benefits of employee ownership and is celebrated by many of the estimated 1000 plus EO businesses operating in the UK, at least 146 of which are Scottish-registered and employ 5,350 people.
Jerba Campervans founder Simon Poole has been a flagbearer for the employee ownership movement and EO Day marks his last full working day before he hands over the reins to new MD Paul Kimberlin, before taking on a part time role as Chair of the company.
Simon said: “EO Day is a great way of raising the profile and highlighting the benefits of the employee-owned business model which naturally is one that we fully support.
“Anas Sarwar has previously expressed an interest in employee-owned businesses so we thought it was a great opportunity to invite him in to see the work we do and he seemed impressed by what he found.
“The day also provided a chance for all the staff to let their hair down and to relax a bit after what has been a very busy period for the business. With a two-year order book in front of us, it’s important to enjoy some downtime when the chance comes up.”
The politicians in attendance were given a tour around Jerba’s workshop, providing them with the opportunity to scope out a number of its in-progress conversions and to discuss the value of employee ownership with the staff. Both were also invited to join the barbeque in the afternoon.
Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar said: “It has been a pleasure visiting Jerba Campervans on Employee Ownership Day 2022.
“The site is a wonderful example of both the benefits of employee ownership and the scale of the employee ownership sector in Scotland.
“The team at Jerba are highly skilled and are creating high quality products in a growing market for Scotland.
“I want to thank the team for showing me around and wish them continued success.”
James de le Vingne, Chief Executive at Employee Ownership Association which organises EO Day said: “With this year being the 10th annual EO Day, it’s great to hear what Jerba Campervans has been up to.
“In raising awareness of the benefits of employee ownership, it helps us plant the seed of EO in the minds of the nation to #GrowEO like never before.”
Jerba Campervans was launched in 2006 and specialises in converting and customising Volkswagen Transporter vans for those passionate about adventure and the outdoors.
Converting Volkswagen T6.1 models, the North Berwick based firm is officially recognised by Volkswagen as a Motorhome Qualified Converter, and is the only firm in Scotland to receive this qualification.
With a dedicated and flexible team, the Jerba Campervans’ family adapts to the needs of their customers, creating a house on wheels with the highest UK level of road safety, assuring customers of a safe, and stylish ride.
First of all, we hope you enjoyed the Picnic in the Park on Sunday 19th June in collaboration with the Friends of Victoria Park and the Victoria Park Allotment Holders. There seemed to be hundreds of people there, all having a great time. We hope you caught up with some old friends and made some new ones.
Next in the calendar will be our second Annual General Meeting. This will be held on Saturday 2nd July and members will be receiving their own invitation to attend in person this year, now that Covid restrictions have been relaxed. There will be more details in the members’ invitations.
If you think you are already a member, but have not received the AGM invitation by email in the last few days, please do get in touch with us to check your membership status by emailing admin@heartofnewhaven.co.uk .
Just a reminder that receiving this newsletter does not necessarily mean that you are a member. You might just have signed up to receive the newsletter but not joined as a member.
Check out our website for membership conditions, which are purely geographical. If you live in our area of benefit (there’s a map on the website) then you can become a full member with voting rights.
If you live outside the area then you can still become an associate member but will not be able to vote at the AGM.
Joining is free. If you haven’t joined and wish to, then you can find the form under JOIN on the website.
The Trustees look forward to meeting members in person, many of them for the first time, and discussing our exciting plans for the future.
We would also like to use this newsletter to introduce you to a new member of our team. Bryan McCarthy joins us as our new Volunteer Coordinator.
One of our trustees, Christine McDerment has been on the other end of the volunteering email address up until now, but Bryan has stepped up and answered the call for some help.
Bryan is originally from Cork, Ireland, but moved to Edinburgh five years ago and has been living in Leith while working in criminal justice with Edinburgh City Council. “I have always enjoyed volunteering in my spare time and am excited to put my energy into coordinating the volunteering activities of Heart of Newhaven,” he says.
Now, a reminder: we are looking for volunteers to get involved in reminiscence training.
Sharing family stories is therapeutic and instructive, not to mention enjoyable. If you’re interested in helping to record people’s stories and memories, to then share with the community, then please get in touch. We have secured funding for this, so the training would be free for the participants.
Contact: judy.crabb@heartofnewhaven.co.uk
or Christine.mcderment@heartofnewhaven.co.uk
Remember to check the website regularly for blogs.
The month of May saw a visit to the Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther, with whom we hope to collaborate on exhibitions and events in the future. As well as their regular collection they also offer temporary exhibitions and the current one runs until 19th June.
You can find the blogs, including Culture & Heritage and View From The Chair, under BLOGS on the website.
The team at the Amazon delivery station in Bathgate is celebrating Armed Forces Day (25th June) by shining a light on some of the veterans and reservists working across Amazon’s UK operations network.
One of the veterans currently working at Amazon in Bathgate is Daniel Da Silva, who joined the company in 2020.
The Amazon Military Programme offers members of the military community the opportunity to pursue a wide range of exciting new career paths at Amazon.
This year Amazon will recruit (or has recruited) over 300 veterans, reservists and military spouses across the business in over 35 different jobs ranging from health & safety specialists, engineers, sales managers and team leaders to senior managers. These new employees join over 2,500 already employed at Amazon since it commenced its military programme in 2011.
Amazon has been awarded the Employer of the Year Award at the Ex-Forces in Business Awards for two years in succession for its outstanding efforts in supporting ex-services personnel and military spouses. The Ex-Forces in Business Awards is the world’s largest celebration of military veterans in second careers.
The awards are dedicated to providing a much-needed platform for uncovering and showcasing the business achievements of ex-military, recognising the value veterans add to businesses as well as the employers that support the transition of servicemen and women.
Amazon’s military onboarding plan dedicated mentoring platform and thriving employee resource group ‘Warriors at Amazon’ continue to ensure our ex-forces have the best possible start to their second careers in Industry.
Amazon is also a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. The Covenant, originally introduced in 2011, has a focus on helping the Armed Forces community to access the same support from government and commercial services as the public.
Amazon first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013 and renewed its commitment in 2021, vowing to uphold its key principles and to demonstrate its commitment to serving personnel, reservists, veterans and families.
Daniel Da Silva joined Amazon two years ago and is currently working as a Health and Safety Coordinator based at the Bathgate delivery station.
Before joining Amazon, Daniel decided at age 17 to join the marines in Portugal. Due to an injury after 12 months of training, Daniel was told he couldn’t finish the last three weeks of his course. After recovering from his injury, Daniel started the same training once again and after 12 months, he received his well-deserved blue beret.
“At some point in life we all fall, but it is down to us to stand up and use that bad moment as a fuel for something greater,” he said.
As lockdown struck, Daniel found it very hard to stay at home. His brother was working at Amazon, so he decided to apply for a temporary part-time job but decided to stay on with Amazon after lockdown restrictions lifted.
“I started to enjoy the diversity of roles here and opportunities and when it came to the time to go back to my previous job, I decided to stay at Amazon,” Daniel said.
“For six years of my life, I had done a lot of leadership training and learned a lot during that period. I can now use those experiences to put what I learned into practice at Amazon. It’s something that comes naturally to me now.
“Amazon is a great company to work for and a brilliant place to develop skills. You can go up the levels if you have the passion and commitment to do so.” Daniel added. “Comparing the opportunities that we have at Amazon to the military, it’s a much safer environment and you can spend more time with family, which are two big bonuses for me.”
Clare Cornbleet, Senior Delivery Station Manager at Amazon in Bathgate said: “The Amazon Military Programme has been a fantastic success and Daniel is one of the many brilliant veterans and reservists working in Amazon buildings here in Bathgate and around the UK.
“The skills learned in the military are highly transferable to a role at Amazon and we’re pleased to continue offering employment, training and development opportunities to former servicemen and women through our programme.”
Gillian Russell, Principle Programme Manager, Global Military Affairs and retired Royal Navy Officer at Amazon, added: “The military community brings huge value to the workforce and we have a dedicated team focused on bringing that talent into Amazon.
“We offer opportunities across the whole business and we train, develop and support veterans, military spouses and Reserves to flourish and thrive here. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to lean new skills and build their career at Amazon.”
Launched in 2021 the Amazon Corporate Military Internship Program is one such opportunity. It offers a direct path into corporate roles in e-commerce for those transitioning from the Armed Forces.
Those on the programme are supported throughout their transition to the corporate world, including a military mentor who already works at Amazon, tailored support from line management and an on boarding buddy.
To find out more about beginning a career with Amazon, visit Amazon Jobs
Amazon provides competitive pay, comprehensive benefits and a modern, safe and engaging work environment for its employees. The roles pay a minimum of £10.00 or £11.10 per hour depending on location, and Amazon employees can also take advantage of Amazon’s pioneering Career Choice programme, which pre-pays 95% of tuition for courses in high-demand fields, up to £8,000 over four years, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a career at Amazon.
Amazon also provides opportunities to improve existing skills or learn new ones through internal career progression opportunities such as cross-training, transferring to a different department and promotion into a managerial role.
Amazon has invested over £32 billion in the UK since 2010 to provide convenience, selection and value to UK consumers, while supporting tens of thousands of businesses and creative professionals including small businesses selling on Amazon’s online stores, Amazon Web Services developers and Kindle Direct Publishing authors.
Latest updates on SARS-CoV-2 variants detected in the UK
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding people to ensure their COVID-19 vaccinations are up to date and to continue following COVID-safe behaviours, as latest technical data indicates BA.4 and BA.5 have become dominant in the UK and are driving the recent increase in infections.
The UKHSA’s COVID-19 variant technical briefing 43, published today, includes epidemiological analysis that shows that Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 now make up more than half of new COVID-19 cases in England, accounting for approximately 22% and 39% of cases, respectively.
Omicron BA.4 and Omicron BA.5 were designated as variants of concern on 18 May on the basis of an apparent growth advantage over the previously-dominant Omicron BA.2 variant.
UKHSA’s latest analysis suggests that Omicron BA.5 is growing 35.1% faster than Omicron BA.2, while Omicron BA.4 is growing approximately 19.1% faster. This suggests that BA.5 is likely to become the dominant COVID-19 variant in the UK.
The increasing prevalence of Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 is likely to be a factor in the recent increase in cases seen in the UK and elsewhere, though there is currently no evidence that Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 cause more severe illness than previous variants.
So far, vaccination means that the rise in cases is not translating to a rise in severe illness and deaths. UKHSA scientists are urging anyone who has not had all the vaccines they are eligible for to make sure that they get them as soon as possible.
COVID-19 HAS NOT GONE AWAY, so it is also vitally important that people continue to follow the guidance. Stay at home if you have any respiratory symptoms or a fever and limit contact with others until you are feeling better, particularly if they are likely to be at greater risk if they contract COVID-19.
Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Advisor at UKHSA said: “It is clear that the increasing prevalence of Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 are significantly increasing the case numbers we have observed in recent weeks. We have seen a rise in hospital admissions in line with community infections but vaccinations are continuing to keep ICU admissions and deaths at low levels.
“As prevalence increases, it’s more important than ever that we all remain alert, take precautions, and ensure that we’re up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, which remain our best form of defence against the virus. It’s not too late to catch up if you’ve missed boosters, or even first doses so please take your recommended vaccines.
“Our data also show that 17.5 per cent of people aged 75 years and over have not had a vaccine within the past six months, putting them more at risk of severe disease. We 2urge these people in particular to get up-to-date.
“If you have any symptoms of a respiratory infection, and a high temperature or feel unwell, try to stay at home or away from others – especially those who are elderly or vulnerable. Face coverings in crowded indoor spaces and hand washing will help to reduce transmission of infection and are especially important if you have any respiratory symptoms.”
UKHSA encourage everyone to continue to follow the most up-to date guidance.
As we learn to live safely with COVID-19, there are actions we can all take to help reduce the risk of catching COVID-19 and passing it on to others.
The risk of catching or passing on COVID-19 is greatest when someone who is infected is physically close to, or sharing an enclosed or poorly ventilated space with, other people.
There are simple things you can do in your daily life that will help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections and protect those at highest risk.
Things you can choose to do are:
Get vaccinated
Let fresh air in if meeting others indoors
Practise good hygiene:
wash your hands
cover your coughs and sneezes
clean your surroundings frequently
Wear a face covering or a face mask, particularly if you are in crowded and enclosed spaces.
Scotland saw the largest increase in Covid cases in the UK last week, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
It estimates about 250,700 people – one in 20 – had the virus in the week ending 17 June – an increase on the previous week when about 176,900, or one in 30 people, had Covid.
Meanwhile, NHS Lothian said a fifth of its nursing staff were off work as a result of the virus. With a 50% rise in hospital inpatients testing positive in the last week, NHS Lothian says its services are coming under increasing pressure.
The UK will provide £2.5 million for immediate life-saving support to people in Afghanistan affected by the devastating earthquake this week, Foreign Secretary Liz Truss announced yesterday.
At least 1,000 people are reported to have been killed in the disaster in the southeast of the country on Wednesday 22 June and more than 1,400 others injured. These numbers are expected to increase as responders reach the hardest-hit areas.
A total of £2 million will go to the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) to provide shelter, medication, water, sanitation, and other basic needs. The IFRC already has staff and volunteers working on the ground to respond to the crisis and help address the urgent humanitarian needs – including in Khost and Paktika, the 2 provinces most heavily impacted.
A further £500,000 will go to the Norwegian Refugee Council, who are already working on the ground, to provide shelter and cash assistance to those affected.
This support will come from the UK’s aid fund for Afghanistan, which is £286 million this financial year, one of the largest bilateral programmes. Last year the UK’s funding supported emergency health services, water, protection, shelter, food, and education through the UN Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund and World Food Programme.
International partners, including the United Nations and World Food Programme, are coordinating the global response and rapidly assessing the humanitarian needs. The UK is in direct contact with them to offer assistance and stands ready to consider any requests for aid or other help. UK aid was already delivering to the affected areas prior to the earthquake via the UN, NGOs and Red Cross.
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said: “The recent earthquake is a tragedy for the people of Afghanistan. The scale of need was already severe before the earthquake struck, with more than half of the population requiring humanitarian assistance.
“UK support will enable lifesaving supplies to be provided on the ground. Our aid budget for Afghanistan is one of the UK’s largest bilateral programmes and we will continue to work urgently with our international partners to respond to the unfolding humanitarian crisis.”
The UK co-hosted a high-level international pledging summit with the UN in March 2022, to provide more vital funds. This helped the response to the UN’s appeal of nearly $4.5 billion for Afghanistan, their largest appeal on record for a single country, reflecting the magnitude of the humanitarian challenge that was already facing the country before the earthquake.
UK funding is channelled through UN partners and NGOs. No funding goes to or through the Taliban.
The summer season will see thousands of people take park in walking festivals across Scotland
Common injuries at these kind of events include fractures, food poisoning while foraging, and falling ill from extreme weather
Earlier this year, six people lost their lives on mountains across Scotland in the space of two weeks, highlighting the danger of walking when unprepared
Summer is here, meaning that walking festival season in Scotland is officially upon us.
In the next few days, major festivals including the Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival, taking place from 17-27 June, and The Great Scottish Walk and Run Festival, on 26June, are happening. Whether you’re taking part in a short stroll, running 5K, or hiking in the mountains, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards.
To ensure that you create happy memories, and that nothing gets in the way of you having an enjoyable time, National Accident Helpline provides some top tips on staying safe whilst venturing out into the great outdoors.
Slippery slopes
Walking or hiking is one of the best ways to experience Scotland. With this being said, it’s no surprise that slips and trips are commonplace amongst walkers, especially when combined with poor weather conditions.
Whilst out walking in the countryside, public toilets can be a particular area of danger. The combination of muddy walking boots and the smooth surface of a toilet floor is a clear slip and trip hazard, which can result in injuries such as ankle sprains and broken bones. Other hazards to watch out for whilst out hiking include uneven or rocky surfaces and wet, slippery grass.
To keep safe, avoid walking on rough ground, especially on hazardous terrain that contains loose and large stones. This is important to remember when walking on slopes or mountainsides. The best way to keep your footing and balance is by using trekking poles.
It may seem obvious, but also make sure you wear the right footwear. If you’re walking on roads, choose lighter boots, as heavy footwear can cause you to drag your feet, which can lead to a trip. If you’re carrying a backpack, then boots with ankle support are essential.
Food poisoning whilst foraging
Food poisoning – whether from uncooked food prepared by a street food vendor or by foraging for your own – is another factor that can risk your health whilst at a walking festival.
Although foraging is a fun way to get up close to nature and wildlife in Scotland, it can be extremely harmful, especially if you do not know what to look for.
To avoid harming your health, there’s a few simple rules to follow:
In line with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it’s illegal to collect wild plants or fungi on a National Nature Reserve (NNR) or a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Pick from clean areas, avoiding places subject to pollution. To avoid contamination, remember to wash your food and hands before and after you eat.
Know what you’re picking, as some species of mushroom and fungi are poisonous and can even be fatal. Before the festival, remember to learn about the various species and read the Scottish Wild Mushroom Code.
Although street food vendors at festivals are generally safe, if you do find yourself falling ill, immediately report it to the local council. Reporting the vendor will often lead to an investigation taking place and something being done to prevent it from happening again.
Under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, you could also claim compensation if you can prove that a caterer has caused you to become poisoned by food.
Beating extreme weather
As the weather can change in an instant, the Scottish outdoors should be taken seriously. Although Scotland has a mild climate, the combination of wind and wet weather means that hypothermia can be a significant hazard.
To avoid hypothermia, wear and carry appropriate shell and insulated clothing, including a spare hat and gloves. Additionally, make sure to carry snacks that you can graze on throughout the day and which will give you plenty of energy.
With heatwaves being predicted, heat exhaustion or heatstroke is another factor watch out for. To avoid falling ill, wear light-coloured, loose clothing, stay hydrated, and try to walk in the shade where possible. If you do find yourself falling ill, contact the festival first aiders as soon as possible.
Jonathan White, Legal and Compliance Director at National Accident Helpline, said: ‘’With the weather heating up and walking festivals set to get into full swing in Scotland, it’s vital that those attending are fully prepared to avoid any risk of personal injury.
‘’Whether you’re going to a nature foraging walk or having a peaceful stroll along the Moray coast, keep safe by ensuring you’re fully prepared for the great outdoors. Invest in suitable clothing and equipment (such as a compass), watch out for trip hazards, be cautious whilst foraging, and prepare for all weather conditions. Doing these simple things will mean you’ll have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable festival experience.’’
For more information about National Accident Helpline, or to find out how you can make a claim, please visit:
Sir Jackie Stewart collected a special commission from Laings’ jewellery workshop ahead of the much-anticipated Sir Jackie Stewart Classic Festival of Motoring charity event.
The stunning 2ct carat white gold diamond and sapphire necklet helped raise funds for Race Against Dementia – the charity founded by Sir Jackie to fund research into prevention and treatment for dementia, a disease that affects 50 million people worldwide including his beloved wife, Helen.
Influenced by the rugged Scottish landscape, the showpiece features a dramatic thistle and stag inspired sapphire centrepiece, which has been carefully set alongside over 100 pavé diamonds.
With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, Sir Jackie worked closely with Laings on the contemporary piece, which also includes a hand engraving to mark the momentous weekend-long event at Thirlestane Castle.
Exploring his remarkable career through an exhibition of impressive memorabilia, this commission also reflects Sir Jackie’s personal treasures, having formed a long-standing relationship with family jeweller Laings early in his career.
He even marked his retirement from F1 motor racing in 1974 by gifting Lady Helen Stewart a custom-made Laings choker, featuring three rows of pearls for his three World Champion titles, 27 rubies for his 27 Grand Prix wins and 99 diamonds for the 99 Grand Prix he entered.
Sarah Alexandar, lead designer at Laings who conceptualised the Festival of Motoring necklet, said: “I have always been aware that the relationship between Sir Jackie and Laings dates back decades – not least because the newspaper cutting from the 1974 commission still adorns the showroom wall today.
“That’s why it was important for us to create a truly exceptional piece for such a worthy cause. A piece that can be cherished for generations.”
