Charity to net cash from tartan sales
LOCAL companies are pulling together to raise money for charity with the launch of a new range of tartan products to help mark St Andrew’s Day.
Inverness-based seafood supplier Fishbox and Black Isle design house Prickly Thistle have collaborated for the project to raise much-needed funds for the Fishermen’s Mission, which provides support to fishing communities across the country.
As St Andrew is the patron saint of fishing, they decided it was the perfect opportunity to raise awareness of the work the charity does to help fishermen land their catch safely.
Magnus Houston, ex-fisherman and founder of Fishbox, said: “For fishermen, the mission is their main emergency service. When things go wrong and when you feel helpless, the fact that you have someone to phone any day and during any time, gives you security. They’re like a guardian and extended family.”
Clare Campbell, founder of Prickly Thistle, saw the chance to create a design which reflected Highland heritage and traditions.
The core colour palette intends to reflect the aquatic environment including the North Sea and the gulf stream. The yarn count represents the fishing areas of Scottish waters and the Scottish ports Fishbox sources from.
The money raised from the tartan sales will go to the Fishermen’s Mission.
An exclusive range of limited edition tartan products have all been hand-made locally. Throws, scarves, shopping bags and seafood dining kits form part of the launch collection.
“We wanted to create a design that not only told the story of Fishbox, but represented the many generations of Scottish fishermen who support communities across the country,” Mr Houston said.
“We believe there is a deep-rooted connection between the art of tartan weaving and the skill of fishing net making.”
Fishing remains Britain’s most dangerous peacetime occupation. This year alone, 16 fishermen have lost their lives to the sea.
The charity’s director of business development, Alison Godfrey, was thrilled by the scheme.
See the products at www.fishbox.co.uk/tartan-shop/
