Tag: Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory

The King’s Birthday Honours 2025

EDINBURGH’s KIDS OPERATING ROOM CHARITY LEADERS RECEIVE MBEs

Over 110 people from Scotland who have contributed to their community and country are celebrated in HM The King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 today.

This year’s awards celebrate individuals making exceptional contributions to public life or their community in keeping with the theme of ‘public service’.  

Professor Ursula Martin has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for services to science and education.

Those being awarded a CBE include Professor Ewan MacDonald OBE, Professor and Head of the Healthy Working Lives Group at the University of Glasgow for services to Occupational Medicine and reducing health inequalities; Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, Chief Scientific Adviser to Scottish Government; and businessman and philanthropist Dr John Watson OBE for services to education and charity.  

Among those receiving an OBE are Lorna and John Norgrove, Co-founders of the Linda Norgrove Foundation for services to Women and Children Abroad and in Scotland; Karen Watt, lately Chief Executive Officer for the Scottish Funding Council for public service and Peter MacDonald, Head of Research for Scottish Tartans Authority is recognised for services to the tartan industry.

Those receiving MBEs include Jennifer Gill, Founder of LoveOliver for services to families affected by childhood cancer, and Alistair Moffat, founder of Borders Book, Lennoxlove Book Festivals and Kelso Arts Festival for services to literature and culture.

Among those honoured with a BEM are the co-founders of Calums Cabin, husband and wife Duncan and Caroline Speirs and Duncan’s twin sister Jenna, for services to charitable fundraising; Shirley Jamieson, former school crossing patrol person in Juniper Green, Edinburgh and Karen Wylie, Founder of the Grub Club for services to ending hunger in the community in Lochside.

Gary Ritchie, Assistant Chief Constable Police Scotland will receive The King’s Police Medal. The King’s Fire Service Medal will be awarded to Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Volunteer Leader Gerry Ralston, and Watch Commander John Aitchison. Sarah Stevenson, Scottish Ambulance Service Corporate Risk Manager, will receive The King’s Ambulance Service Medal.

The First Minister said: “My congratulations and thanks to The King’s Birthday Honours recipients who have each made outstanding contributions to community and public life in Scotland.  

“The recipients of The King’s Police, Fire or Ambulance Service Medals demonstrate lives dedicated to keeping others safe and supporting communities. I sincerely thank them for their service and commitment.”

1215 recipients in total have been awarded for their exceptional achievements, with a particular focus this year on those who have given their time to public service. 

This year’s recipients include dedicated community champions, role models in sport, pioneers in the arts, passionate health workers, and supporters of young people.

Recipients from Scotland make up 9% of the total number of recipients receiving honours this year. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This year’s Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country.

“From community champions to cultural icons, each recipient reflects the very best of Britain. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to them all.”

The Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, said: “I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours list, particularly John and Linda Norgrove on their well-deserved OBEs for their extraordinary humanitarian work in Afghanistan through the Linda Norgrove Foundation. Their dedication to improving the lives of Afghan women and girls, born from personal tragedy, exemplifies the very best of Scottish compassion and resolve.

“Communities across Scotland benefit from the extraordinary effort of those honoured. From Dr Richa Sinha Chair of the Scottish Hindu society and their work to tackle Hinduphobia, to Zahrah Mahmood Chair of the Rambling Society to Heather Hall founding The Usual Place in Dumfries. 

“I would also like to extend special recognition to Scotland Office’s own Moira Vance on receiving her MBE. Moira’s unwavering commitment to public service has been instrumental in the work of our department for 44 years, and this honour reflects her exceptional contribution to the people of Scotland.

“The Honours list showcases the remarkable achievements of individuals across Scotland who have gone above and beyond in their respective fields. Their service to our communities represents the spirit of dedication and excellence that makes Scotland proud.”

Anyone can nominate someone for an honour. If you know someone who has achieved fantastic things worthy of recognition, go to https://www.gov.uk/honours to find out more about how you can put them forward.

Scottish duo help 200,000 children annually with surgery network

Scottish charity leaders recognised in King’s Honours for life-saving work

A HIGH-PROFILE Scottish husband and wife have been jointly awarded MBEs in the King’s Birthday Honours List for their remarkable contribution to children’s healthcare across the globe.

Garreth and Nicola Wood have been recognised for services to health and charity, particularly surgery for children internationally- a nod to their transformative work through the charity they co-founded, Kids Operating Room.

Founded in 2018, Kids Operating Room is a Scottish-based global health organisation creating permanent paediatric operating rooms in low- and middle-income countries. With projects in more than 40 countries, the charity has helped build capacity for nearly 200,000 life-saving operations annually.

Professor George G Youngson CBE, Trustee of Kids Operating Room, said: “The impact that our charity has had on the lives and health of hundreds of thousands of children across the world is a testament to the leadership, commitment and energy shown by our co-founders, Garreth and Nicola Wood.

“Kids Operating Room is delighted that Garreth and Nicola have both been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025, a richly deserved recognition.”

As co-founders, Garreth and Nicola have helped guide the charity from an ambitious idea into a globally recognised organisation working to solve a critical and largely hidden global health emergency – the lack of access to safe surgical care for children in low-resource countries.

Pic:Andy Barr

Garreth Wood MBE, Executive Chairman of Kids Operating Room, said: “From co-founding Kids Operating Room together, to championing causes close to our hearts here in Scotland and around the world, our journey has always been about giving every child a fairer start in life.

“Nicola and I were deeply honoured to each receive an MBE for ‘Services to Health and Charity, particularly Surgery for Children internationally’.

“It’s humbling to be recognised in this way, and even more special to share this moment side-by-side with Nicola.”

Kids Operating Room invests in building local capacity for paediatric surgery by installing state-of-the-art surgical infrastructure, providing training and equipment to local teams, and pioneering the use of solar-powered operating rooms to combat unreliable power supply in remote regions.

Over the past seven years, the charity has installed close to 100 paediatric operating rooms across Africa, Asia and Latin America. Its innovative solar surgery systems have been deployed in over 200 hospitals, allowing uninterrupted life-saving operations even during blackouts.

It recently installed solar panels at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya to avoid disastrous power outages that resulted in the hospital only able to use one theatre, causing huge back logs.

. ***Credit should read Sandy Young/scottishphotographer.com***

Nicola Wood MBE, Co-founder and Trustee, said: “We’re so incredibly grateful to everyone who has been a part of this journey. The dedication, passion and belief of our colleagues around the world, who are working tirelessly to build a fairer world for children, inspires us every day.

“These awards are a tribute to the entire team at Kids Operating Room. We are more motivated than ever to keep going.”

Kids Operating Room achievements include preventing more than 11 million years of disability and generating over $20 billion of economic benefit for partner countries.

The charity’s long-term vision is to become redundant – a world where every nation has the infrastructure and expertise to care for its children without relying on external aid.

Sandy Young/scottishphotographer.com***

David Cunningham, CEO of Kids Operating Room said: “I cannot think of two more worthy recipients of an honour. Each and every day, both Garreth and Nicola transform the lives of children around the world.

“It takes tremendous generosity to work so tirelessly to make the lives of complete strangers so significantly better. Everyone at Kids Operating Room is extremely proud to be part of their team and of the work they have inspired and continue to lead with such energy and enthusiasm.”

Kids Operating Room has ambitious plans to scale further. In 2019, it pledged to install 100 operating rooms by 2030. That goal was met four and a half years early. Now, the charity is doubling down with a new pledge to install another 100 rooms by the end of 2030.

Despite ongoing challenges in the global funding landscape, the charity continues to grow. Garreth and Nicola have personally pledged to underwrite core running costs for the next six years, helping ensure that every external donation goes directly to front-line projects.

With headquarters in Edinburgh and a Global Operations Centre in Dundee, Kids Operating Room continues to punch well above its weight on the world stage. The charity remains a shining example of Scottish innovation and global solidarity in healthcare.

For more information about Kids Operating Room, visit: https://www.kidsor.org/

Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory boss receives OBE in King’s Birthday Honours List

A retired Major in the British Army and the manager of the historic Lady Haig Poppy Factory in Edinburgh has been named in the King’s Birthday Honours List.

Major Charles Pelling (Retd) will receive an OBE for Services to Veterans.

The 65-year-old served in the Royal Tank Regiment, the oldest tank unit in the world, over a 24-year period from 1978 to 2002. He then completed a Master of Business Administration and enjoyed life in France for a while before returning to Scotland where he accepted the post of manager at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in 2007.

He has spent the last 18 years dedicating his time to helping disabled ex-servicemen and women secure employment within the busy Factory.

The close-knit team of veteran’s handmake thousands of poppy wreaths and produce millions of sustainable paper poppies as a symbol of remembrance each year.

Major Pelling, who lives in Edinburgh, said: “I am delighted to receive this honour.  I hope it will highlight the ongoing and critical work that Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and Poppyscotland undertake every day with the veteran’s community in Scotland.”

Michael Fahy, Head of Marketing and PR at Poppyscotland, said: “On behalf of everyone at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and Poppyscotland, I would like to extend our sincere congratulations to Charlie on this wonderful honour of an OBE for Services to Veterans.

“It is thoroughly deserved for a man who has dedicated his life to the British Army and also to supporting both serving and former members of the Armed Forces. Congratulations Charlie!”

Other notable recipients across Scotland include:  

Zahrah Mahmood from Glasgow who at 34 receives an MBE for voluntary service. She is the president of Ramblers Scotland and known as ‘The Hillwalking Hijabi’ for her work addressing the barriers faced by ethnic minorities and providing practical advice to beginners, demonstrating her commitment to making the outdoors accessible to all.

Duncan, Caroline and Jenna Speirs from Argyll and Bute who each receive a BEM for services to charitable fundraising. They provide holiday homes for children with cancer through Calum’s Cabin as well as flats in Glasgow close to cancer treatment centres, allowing families from across the country to stay together in welcoming, home-from-home surroundings during extended periods of treatment. The idea was inspired by their son, and Jenna’s brother, Calum, who passed away from a brain tumour. 

Scottish historian Alistair Moffat from Ettrick and Lauderdale receives an MBE for services to literature and culture. He is the author of more than 40 books on Scottish history and played a prominent role in the creation of The Great Tapestry of Scotland. He also founded the Borders Book Festival, one of the most highly regarded literary festivals in the UK. 

Paula Mary Daly from Ayrshire and Arran who receives an MBE for services to Fishermen and their Families. Paula manages the Fishermen’s Mission’s regional centre in the Port of Troon where she works to connect the isolated and marginalised with the services they need. 

Monty Cowen from Giffnock, who at 92 receives an MBE for services to the Jewish Community. He assisted with the merger of the synagogue in Giffnock to a bigger building now known as Giffnock Newton Mearns Hebrew Congregation, is Honorary President of the Glasgow Hebrew Burial Society and is actively involved with the Association of Jewish Ex Servicemen and Women. 

The King’s Birthday Honours 2025 – Police, Fire and Ambulance

Recipients of blue light service medals in Scotland

King’s Police Medal 

Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie, Police Scotland 

King’s Fire Service Medal 

Volunteer Leader Gerry Ralston, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 

Watch Commander John Aitchison, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 

King’s Ambulance Service Medal 

Scottish Ambulance Service Corporate Risk Manager, Sarah Stevenson, Scottish Ambulance Service 


KING’S POLICE MEDAL 

Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie, Police Scotland 

Former Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie joined Strathclyde Police in 1991 and retired in April 2025 after 33 years’ police service. He was an experienced Major Events Commander, Strategic Firearms Commander, and Public Order Gold Commander. He was instrumental in the roll-out of naloxone to all frontline police officers, making Police Scotland the first force globally to implement a nationwide roll-out of the opioid reversing medication. Under his leadership, a national naloxone co-ordination unit was established, prior to national rollout. During his time at Police Scotland, 13,216 operational officers completed the training, more than 10,500 frontline officers were equipped with naloxone while on duty and officers administered naloxone to over 630 individual incidents involving suspected opioid overdoses.

In 2021, ACC Ritchie was instrumental in the creation, development and delivery of Police Scotland’s International Academy and the wider international strategy for Police Scotland. He has represented and showcased Police Scotland globally, hosting visits to the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Germany, and Columbia. In 2023, he led a Scottish delegation to the Global Law Enforcement & Public Health Association Conference in Sweden where he outlined Scotland’s public health approach to addressing underlying inequalities. That same year, ACC Ritchie was appointed Executive Lead for Operational Support, a broad area of responsibility ranging from road policing to the planning and preparation for events and counter terrorism incidents. He was responsible for major events planning in Scotland and was involved in the COP-26 conference held in Glasgow, Operation Unicorn, following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the Interpol General Assembly, which saw senior policing officials from across the world descend on Glasgow to discuss international cooperation.  ACC Ritchie also led on Royalty and VIP Protection in Scotland, ensuring Police Scotland worked closely with the Metropolitan Police in relation to the security of protected persons.  

KING’S FIRE SERVICE MEDAL 

Volunteer Leader Gerry Ralston, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 

Volunteer Leader Ralston is an On Call Firefighter recognised for his work at Salen Community Fire Station on the Isle of Mull, and across East and West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute. The on-call firefighter joined the Salen Volunteer Unit as a Firefighter in 1988. He has helped design and deliver initiatives aimed at improving how the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service identify, recruit, and retain On Call Firefighters. Volunteer Leader Ralston also helps drive forward programmes aimed at educating and informing the community, such as CPR awareness, and delivers engagement sessions to Tobermory High School. 

He has organised and raised over £8000 for different causes and charities including The Fire Fighters Charity, Cancer Research UK, Stroke Foundation, the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow and, in July this year, will tackle a 62-mile event for Cancer Research UK. During the pandemic, he facilitated test and protect at Craignure Community Fire Station, taking time out with his main employment to assist the community. He has been at the forefront of all fundraising efforts undertaken by Salen Community Fire station and regularly supports Tobermory Fire Station with their annual open day including donations supporting the Firefighters Charity and other deserving local charities and projects. 

Watch Commander John Aitchison, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 

Watch Commander John Aitchison has been a member of the Fire and Rescue Service in Scotland for over 21 years – initially joining Grampian Fire Brigade – where he was first posted to Altens Fire Station, Aberdeen. He was promoted to Crew Commander in 2006, where he served at Aberdeen’s Central Fire Station. It was while working here in 2007 that he became a member of Operation Florian, a charity that organises fundraising for international humanitarian aid. In 2008, as part of the project, Watch Commander Aitchison led a convoy of donated fire engines from Aberdeen to Macedonia. On their arrival, the watch commander and his team provided two weeks of training to local fire crews with the donated equipment. He would go on to complete the trip a further two times – returning to provide further training and equipment. 

In 2011, Watch Commander Aitchison joined the United Kingdom International Search and Rescue as a Crew Leader and Sector Medic, and is on standby to attend national and international emergencies. As a member of this team, he was sent to help the response to the Nepal Earthquake in 2015 and the earthquake in Türkiye in 2023. His work in this area led to difficulties with his mental wellbeing. Determined to not let this define him, he went on to co-found Talk Group 20 Aberdeen – a peer support group for firefighters which aims to safeguard mental wellbeing. He also co-founded the organisation, Fire Aid Nepal, a project which aims to support, and future prepare the Nepalese community following the devastating quake 10-years-ago. In 2023, he played an integral role in forming the first ever fire and rescue service for the Mount Everest region and, in 2024, received a Pride of Scotland Award for his work in Nepal which has also attracted letters of thanks from King Charles III. He was promoted to Watch Commander in 2020, where he is currently a national urban search and rescue instructor. 

KING’S AMBULANCE SERVICE MEDAL  

SAS Corporate Risk Manager, Sarah Stevenson, Scottish Ambulance Service 

As Corporate Risk Manager for the Scottish Ambulance Service, Ms Stevenson has worked tirelessly to embed robust and effective risk management arrangements across the organisation, embedding this at local and board levels. 

She also recently led a significant project to replace a 20-year-old IT risk management system to record risk and adverse events. This two-year project has resulted in substantial improvements for all staff, including easier reporting access and annual recurring savings of more than £13000.  

Ms Stevenson personally led the training and awareness programme for the new system, leading staff engagement sessions and developing video tutorials and other tools to assist staff and improve accountability and responsibility. The system – which went live in March this year – has received positive feedback from Scottish Ambulance Service staff.

Gregor Townsend enjoys friendly rivalry with Fijian veteran at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory

The Scottish Rugby coach chatted with Rav Ravutia about the upcoming Scotland V Fiji match at Murrayfield to be played today – Saturday, November 2 with a 5.40pm KO

Scotland international rugby coach Gregor Townsend enjoyed some friendly rivalry as he chatted with a Fijian veteran, whilst launching the Scottish Poppy Appeal 2024.

The rugby legend was visiting Lady’s Haig Poppy Factory in Edinburgh when he was introduced to staff member, Fijian national Rav Ravutia, ahead of his side’s Nations Series opener against Fiji on November 2.

Aswell as discussing the upcoming match, Gregor was interested to hear about Rav’s story and how he came to serve in Scotland and later work for Poppyscotland.

Rav, 51, was first introduced to Scotland after visiting the capital with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Band who were invited to perform in the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 1998.

Upon returning to his homeland, the following year Rav resigned from the Fijian Army after eight and a half years service and flew to Scotland to sign up for the British Army.

Serving from 1999 to 2023, Rav was a member of the Royal Scots and later the Adjutant General Corps. 

After leaving the Army he was a member of the Royal Scots Regimental Association Fijian branch in Edinburgh but found himself unemployed and with a forces disability was unsure where to turn.

With the help of fellow veteran friends, Rav was introduced to Poppyscotland.

Rav said: “Last year I was introduced to the work of Poppyscotland and very quickly was made extremely welcome. That is when I began my new career here as a veteran poppy and wreath maker.

“It is an absolute honour to work for this charity and goes to show just one of the many ways they can help veterans following service.”

Rav continued: “It was great to meet Scotland international coach Mr Townsend as he launched the Poppy Appeal and in particular ahead of Scotland playing my national team Fiji next month. We spoke about my time in the army and of course had some good chat about the rugby. In fact, I asked him to please go soft on Fiji!”

Gregor said: “It was a real privilege to meet the veterans at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory upon launching the Scottish Poppy Appeal, and great to meet Rav and share some friendly rivalry ahead of our Nations opener with Fiji.

“Every year Poppyscotland supports hundreds of veterans and their families, helping them live life fully after service.

“Show them you care, wear a poppy. Your donation can change lives for our Armed Forces community.”

The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country.

The money raised from the Appeal has enabled Poppyscotland to help countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.People can find out more and support the Scottish Poppy Appeal at www.poppyscotland.org.uk.

Scotland rugby coach Gregor Townsend launches Poppy Appeal 2024

Rugby legend kicks off the appeal with tour of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh

Scotland rugby coach Gregor Townsend officially launched the Scottish Poppy Appeal 2024 today and said it was a “real privilege” to be involved.

The former Gala RFC player visited Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory at the Poppyscotland site in Edinburgh for a tour of the historical premises and took the opportunity to chat with staff about the importance of the charity.

Rugby legend Gregor, whose playing career spanned two decades for both club and country and included spells at Brive, Montpellier and Border Reivers to name a few, was highly impressed with Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and the intricate work that goes into making the iconic Scottish poppies, wreaths and other symbols of Remembrance.

The former Scotland and British Lions star was also impressed to learn that Lady’s Haig Poppy Factory only employs disabled ex-service personnel, breaking down barriers for veterans who otherwise may struggle to find employment.

The charity also attracts dozens of volunteers of all ages, including those from the cadets and corps, who are all there to contribute to making a difference to the lives of both current and former members of the Armed Forces.

Gregor said: “It’s a real privilege to be here. Seeing veterans working, contributing like they did before. They enjoy what they do, knowing it is for a greater cause.

“On behalf of Scottish Rugby, we have a strong link with Poppyscotland and Remembrance. We wear poppies on our jerseys and the players really appreciate that link with history, especially playing our games throughout the month of November.

“Every year Poppyscotland supports hundreds of veterans and their families, helping them live life fully after service.

“Show them you care, wear a poppy. Your donation can change lives for our Armed Forces community.”

Head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland, Gordon Michie, said: “Wearing your poppy shows serving personnel, veterans, and their families, that their service and sacrifice means something to you, that it is appreciated and recognised. Importantly, it also shows that such service will never be forgotten. 

“All funds raised will go to support our life-changing work, providing advice and welfare support to the Armed Forces community in Scotland.”

The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country.

The money raised from the Appeal has enabled Poppyscotland to help countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.

People can find out more and support the Scottish Poppy Appeal at www.poppyscotland.org.uk.

Veterans comedy team returns to Edinburgh Fringe

The Veterans Comedy Club is heading to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with a run of shows from sell-out stand-up comedians who are bonded by a unique camaraderie born from their past.

The Veterans Comedy Club, a newly formed community interest company (CIC), is a group of Armed Forces veterans who have completed the Royal British Legion’s ‘Recovery Through Comedy’ initiative. This programme sought to build resilience and confidence in Armed Forces veterans who had faced serious adversity, such as being physically injured through their service, or as sufferers of PTSD.

This was achieved through a stand-up comedy training programme, where the veterans, under the tutelage of comedy superstar Janice Connolly (also known for her award-winning comedy character Mrs Barbara Nice), morphed their personal experiences into stand-up comedy routines.

The culmination of the course was a three-day run of sell-out shows at last year’s Fringe at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, where disabled veterans make Remembrance symbols all year round.

Inspired by their personal transformation, the veterans founded The Veterans Comedy Club with the aim of producing more courses like the one that changed their lives. To raise awareness, they are returning to the Edinburgh Fringe for five more shows this year. From 13-15 August, they will once again be performing at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, which is situated on Logie Green Road in Edinburgh.

Commenting on this announcement, Director of The Veterans Comedy Club, Jane Britton, said: “We are thrilled to be returning to the Edinburgh Fringe this year for a string of performances. This is an opportunity for our comedians to continue their self-growth, and to raise awareness of the transformative qualities of stand-up comedy.

“The support from Fringe-goers last year was phenomenal, and we hope that by waiving any ticket cost, we can command similar audience sizes to last year.  Through our great new show, we also aim to gain support for our aims as a CIC and raise funds through donations.

“But what’s most important is that we get the message out there, that stand-up comedy can have an inspirational impact on the mental and physical wellbeing of veterans, their families, and anyone else who may have experienced some level of trauma.

“We are a new and small organisation with the aim of making a big difference. We hope that the tremendous Scottish public will join us for an hour of laughter and camaraderie that we genuinely don’t believe you will find elsewhere.”

Charlie Pelling, Manager of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, and a former officer in the Royal Tank Regiment, commented: “We are delighted to be welcoming the newly formed Veterans Comedy Club to Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory. I was in awe of the wit and humour of last year’s shows, and we are excited to catch up with the comedians and hear their new material.

“At Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, we work hard throughout the year to provide Scotland and large parts of the rest of the UK with Wreaths and other Remembrance symbols, and to manufacture all items for the Scottish Poppy Appeal come November. But we always enjoy hosting events for key partners, especially those who are on a journey to make a difference.

“We look forward to welcoming members of the public to these shows and to continuing our close relationship with The Veterans Comedy Club.”

Although tickets are free, attendees should book at Poppyscotland’s website: www.poppyscotland.org.uk/operationstandup

Fringe: Veterans comedy show takes to the stage at Poppy Factory

Is laughter really the best medicine? The ‘Recovery Through Comedy Show’ sets out to prove it is, as a group of Armed Forces veterans, and a currently serving female member of the Armed Forces, bring their unique comedy to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe on 11th and 12th August at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory.

The performers are all graduates of an innovative veterans’ programme developed by the Royal British Legion. The programme uses comedy techniques to promote resilience, and support mental health and wellbeing. Although they had no previous experience, the participants have been supported to create their own original stand-up comedy sets and received rave reviews for their earlier performances.

This will be the first time Poppyscotland, the nation’s leading Armed Forces charity, has hosted a Fringe event and follows the refurbishment of the historic Lady Haig Poppy Factory building.

Poppyscotland’s Director, Austin Hardie, said: “We’re very proud to be able to bring the ‘Recovery through Comedy Show’ to this year’s Fringe. Not only is it very funny, the show also gives a voice to veterans in a new and inspiring way that challenges preconceptions.

“At Poppyscotland, we provide support for current and former members of the Armed Forces and their families in whatever way works best for them. Initiatives like ‘Recovery through Comedy’ show that there are many ways to help them overcome whatever challenges they face.”

The free, ticketed show will be at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Warriston on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th August, with performances at 2pm and 6pm each day. Capacity is limited so guests are encouraged to secure their tickets as early as possible.

Tickets are available from www.poppyscotland.org.uk/recovery-through-comedy.

Poppyscotland wins Gold award for supporting Armed Forces community

Poppyscotland has been recognised by the Ministry of Defence for its outstanding help with employment for members of the Armed Forces community.

The Edinburgh-based charity was awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, the highest badge of honour given by the MoD.

The charity is one of 16 businesses and organisations in Scotland to receive the Gold award, with the scheme now in its ninth year. Poppyscotland, and its subsidiary, Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, which employs a number of veterans with disabilities, both achieved the Silver award last year.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme encourages employers to support the Armed Forces community and inspire others to do the same. It runs bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that demonstrate their support.

To win the gold award, they must provide 10 extra paid days leave for reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, reserves, Cadet Force adult volunteers, and spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.

They must also advocate the benefits by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage with the Employer Recognition Scheme. The Covenant is a promise to treat current and former service personnel and their families fairly, in areas from healthcare to housing.

Poppyscotland is Scotland’s leading Armed Forces charity, providing a wide range of services, including advice, financial support, and help with physical and mental health issues.

Austin Hardie, Director of Poppyscotland, said: “As an employer working directly at the heart of the Armed Forces community, we felt it was important that we show leadership and highlight the many benefits this scheme brings to both employer and employee. 

“Being awarded the Gold recognition is testimony to the values of Poppyscotland and our commitment to those who have served and are serving currently.  By espousing these values publicly, we also hope that it will encourage others to be involved in our life-changing welfare work that we provide to those in need in the Armed Forces community in Scotland.” 

Leo Docherty MP, Minister for Defence People, said: “Regardless of size, location or sector, employing members of the Armed Forces community is good for businesses.

“These awards recognise the outstanding support for our armed forces from employers across the UK and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one.”

Scottish winners will be honoured at a ceremony at Stirling Castle on November 3rd.

Granton’s Fraser scoops silver at international Veteran Games

Former Scots Guard Fraser Rowand (CORR) said he was “completely shocked” to win the silver medal in the cross-fit event at the Veteran Games in Israel.

Fraser, 41, has returned to Edinburgh after the “inspiring” event last week which brought together wounded, injured and sick veterans from across the UK and Israel.

The former Lance Corporal from Granton took up exercise to help recover from post-traumatic stress disorder after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. He struggled after leaving the Armed Forces in 2013 but started to turn his life around with help from Poppyscotland. He now works in Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh.

Fraser joined a team of 60 from across the UK and competed in the swimming and cross-fit events. He was also reunited with his former platoon commander, Leo Docherty, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, who supported the Games.

Fraser said that the competition had motivated him to continue training and pursue his dream of qualifying as a personal trainer.

He said: “I was completely shocked to win the silver medal. I just went in and hoped for the best. I managed to complete all the tasks and thought it went well.

“The whole experience was unreal. Everyone was so welcoming, and we were treated like VIPs every day. There was a wonderful atmosphere, especially with support from all the families.

“It was truly inspiring to meet other veterans and humbling to learn about their experiences. Everyone had different abilities – there were people in wheelchairs, those who were blind or had other disabilities. But there was a real sense of pride in what they were doing, and they all refused to give up.

“I felt that the swimming event on Tuesday went badly and that knocked my confidence a little. But then the next day I had a fresh start in the cross-fit. It really shows what you can achieve when you put your mind to it.

“Although it was a competition, there was a real sense of camaraderie, and we were in it together. We also met professors from both countries who were there to discuss the physical and mental health aspects. There was no divide between us, and we’d all sit down together to have dinner each night. I’ve made some great friends and we’ll stay in touch.

“It’s hard to explain the powerful impact that this event had. I think it’s going to take me a few weeks to come back down from it. But it has really motivated me to move forward and continue to work at becoming a personal trainer.

Fraser, a father-of-five, travelled to Israel with his wife Susan, as well as other competitors and their families. The families also enjoyed a range of cultural excursions around Tel Aviv and Jerusalem in between events.

He also laid a wreath at the Commonwealth War Graves in Jerusalem.

Charlie Pelling, manager of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory,said: “Congratulations to Fraser on this fantastic achievement. His commitment and motivation are truly inspiring, and this is thoroughly well deserved.

“The Veterans Games are a wonderful event that recognises the power of sport and comradeship in supporting veterans’ mental and physical health. I hope that Fraser’s story will inspire other veterans who are facing similar challenges.”

The Veteran Games was organised by Beit Halochem UK, a national charity devoted to raising awareness and funds for Israel’s wounded veterans and victims of terror. The event recognises the fundamental role played by sport and family in supporting veterans’ recovery after physical and psychological challenges.

Participants competed in a wide range of sports, while also learning how their respective countries provide care for former servicemen and women who are wounded, sick and injured. The conference also saw internationally renowned academics and mental health experts from both countries meet to discuss veterans’ health, recovery, and welfare issues.

The Games are entirely funded by philanthropic donations, with Poppyscotland providing support with travel expenses for five Scottish competitors.

Granton veteran competes in international Games in Israel

A former Scots Guard from Edinburgh, who now works in Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, is traveling to Israel today (SATURDAY 28th MAY) to compete in the Veteran Games.

Fraser Rowand, 41, from Granton, said that exercise was a vital part of his recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

He will join around 65 veterans from across the UK to take part in the international event in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem next week (Sunday 29th May – Friday 3rd June).

First held in 2019, the Veteran Games bring together wounded, injured and sick Armed Forces veterans with their Israeli counterparts who are battling similar challenges. 

Fraser, a former Lance Corporal and father-of-five, has been selected to take part in the cross-fit and swimming events. He left the Army in 2013 after more than a decade’s service but struggled to adapt to civilian life after losing close friends in Afghanistan.

He managed to turn his life around with the help of Poppyscotland and joined the team at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory four years ago. He also started exercising in his free time and is working to qualify as a personal trainer.

Fraser said: “I didn’t realise I had PTSD until several years afterward, but I think it had always been there.  I lost three close friends in Afghanistan. It’s hard to describe what it was like out there, but you just had to get on with doing the job.

“When I left, I found it hard to settle down to a civilian job. In the Army you’re part of a big team, and you lose that when you leave. It was only through sitting down with different organisations that I was able to start working through it.

“I was very fortunate to hear about the job at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory. It’s all set up for veterans and you’ve got that camaraderie here. I don’t know what I would have done without it.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity. I’ve never done an international competition, but I’m looking forward to competing with other veterans and meeting like-minded people.”

Fraser’s wife, Susan, will be traveling with him along with other competitors’ families. They will also have a chance to take part in social and cultural activities over the week.

The Veteran Games are organised by Beit Halochem UK, a national charity devoted to raising awareness and funds for Israel’s wounded veterans and victims of terror. The event recognises the fundamental role played by sport and family in supporting veterans’ recovery after physical and psychological challenges.

Participants compete in a wide range of sports, while also learning how their respective countries provide care for former servicemen and women who are wounded, sick and injured. 

Charlie Pelling, manager of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory,said: “We’re delighted that Fraser has been selected to compete and wish him the best of luck.

“The Veteran Games is a wonderful initiative that recognises the important role of sport and comradeship in supporting veterans’ physical and mental health.  This is an opportunity to highlight the resilience of our Armed Forces community and raise awareness of issues facing them and their families.”

The first event of its kind, the Veteran Games and Conference is funded entirely by philanthropic donations, with Poppyscotland and Legion Scotland providing support with travel expenses for five Scottish competitors.

Events will be held at Beit Halochem’s pioneering state-of-the-art facilities, which offers rehabilitation, sports and recreation centres and lifelong care for disabled veterans and their families in Israel.

The conference will see internationally renowned academics and mental health experts from both countries meet to discuss veterans’ health, recovery, and welfare issues.

Launching the event, Leo Docherty MP, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, said: “Sport is an integral part of the rehabilitation and recovery journey for wounded veterans.

“The 2022 Veteran Games highlights how sport can provide amazing opportunities for veterans across the globe to connect, over shared experiences.

“I wish good luck to all the athletes in this year’s games and thank charities across the UK for their continued dedication and support for our disabled veterans.”

Scottish Secretary visits Poppy Factory

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack visited Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Redford Barracks yesterday.

The factory makes five million poppies and 15,000 wreaths every year to raise funds for Poppyscotland’s veteran support services. During lockdown the factory staff worked from home, continuing to make poppies for this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.

Mr Jack met factory manager Major Charlie Pelling (retired) and many of the former service men and women who work in the factory.

Speaking after his visit, Alister Jack said: “It was a real privilege to visit Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and meet the former service men and women who produce the famous poppies.

“It was heartening to hear how hard they had all worked to make sure that production continued right through lockdown. Every year Poppyscotland raises much needed money for veterans charities, and I wish them the very best of luck with this year’s appeal.

Charlie Pelling, Manager at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, said: “The lockdown has been a very challenging period for us but it is a testament to the professionalism and commitment of our workforce that they adapted to home working so enthusiastically.

“In doing so that have ensured that the millions of poppies needed for the 2020 Scottish Poppy Appeal would be ready in time. While we expect this year’s Appeal to be different due to the ongoing pandemic, it is vital that we continue to have the support of the public, without which Poppyscotland would not be able to continue offering it’s life-changing support to our Armed Forces community.”

Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, a subsidiary of Poppyscotland, is currently located in Redford Barracks while their permanent premises in Canonmills are refurbished.

Poppyscotland raises money through the annual Scottish Poppy Appeal to deliver support to members of the armed forces community. The charity funds services in advice, employment, housing, mental health, mobility and respite.