Boyndie Trust in the spotlight at Arradoul SWI
The work of the Boyndie Trust took centre stage at Arradoul SWI’s October meeting.
Arradoul president Coleen MacKenzie welcomed members to the meeting before introducing Duncan Leece from the Boyndie Centre.
He noted that the charity-run Boyndie Trust has operated for 25 years and is made up of three sections, namely the visitor centre - including the gardens, restaurant and gift shop - the development training for adults with special needs and the Banffshire Partnership, which provides rural and community support via the dial-a-bus service.
Mr Leece went on to explain that the charity’s role became more prominent during the Covid epidemic. As a result he became a recipient of the British Empire Medal (BEM). This then led to an invitation to the coronation of King Charles, representing Banffshire in May 2023.
Being part of this momentous ceremony was a wonderful honour, he told Arradoul members. He told us that he was allocated seating with the talented Ascension Choir and that they watched the service via a TV screen despite being in Westminster Abbey.
Summing up, Mr Leece said it was a memorable experience to be part of the big party atmosphere in London and it was a privilege to mingle with celebrities from far and wide.
After tea members were reminded that the Mario Jannetta concert will take place on Friday, October 25 at 8pm. Looking ahead the Christmas Craft Fayre is to be held on Sunday, November 24 from 10am-4pm.
Monthly competition winners: Flower of the month - 1. Jessie Low, 2. Marian Stringer; Something new from something old - 1. Marian Stringer, 2. Jessie Low.
The next meeting is on Tuesday, November 29 when there will be a demonstration of buttercream flowers by Chane Otto.
