King Charles III talks at Holyrood anniversary event to Moray fundraiser Neil Paton
A weel kent face had a long chat with King Charles at Holyrood’s 25th anniversary celebration this past Saturday.
Lossiemouth resident Neil Paton was invited to attend the event by Moray MSP Richard Lochhead in recognition of all his charity work.
Since 2017 Neil has raised £140,000 for local charities MFR Cash for Kids and Logan’s Fund through various events including a skydive and wing walk, as well as an annual golf event at Hopeman Golf Club.
Mr Lochhead said: “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome Neil and his wife Joan to the Scottish Parliament as we came together to celebrate 25 years since it reconvened.
“It was a very special event and right that the people of Scotland are at the heart of the celebrations.”
All 129 MSPs were each asked to nominate a ‘local hero’ – that’s a constituent who makes a positive difference to the lives of others.
Neil joined other local heroes at a special ceremonial event also attended by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Mr Lochhead added: “Having sought suggestions from people in Moray as to who should represent us as our local hero, I was blown away by the testimonies I received for so many outstanding community champions.
“It was a tough choice but Neil was selected for his committed fundraising efforts for two worthy local charities – MFR Cash for Kids and Logan’s Fund – which I think represents the generosity and caring nature of people in Moray.
“His fundraising efforts are phenomenal and although I know he doesn’t look for it, he does deserve this recognition. I hope he and Joan had a really memorable day.”
Neil recently marked a 25th anniversary of his own, having worked for that length of time at Robertson Construction.
Talking about his meeting with royalty, he said: “When the King saw the word ‘Moray’ on my badge, he asked ‘Lossiemouth?’.
“I replied, ‘that’s a good guess’.
“He wanted to know which charities I supported and how I raised money.
“He was very down to earth, easy to talk to and appeared genuinely interested.”
