It’s one of the north-east’s most popular lunch events.
And the ladies of Aberdeen, who took part in a special event on Thursday have helped raise £73,000 g[for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland – better known as CHAS.
The initiative, which is now in its seventh year, was hosted at the Marcliffe by singer, entertainer and long-time CHAS supporter Michelle McManus.
Guests enjoyed a two-course meal and fizz reception, stories and songs from Ms McManus, a live performance from the Sugahoneyz, fundraising games and a silent auction, which included dozens of prizes such as a day with The Queen’s Pony, luxury breaks in Spain, Latvia, Estonia and Andy Murray’s hotel, signed memorabilia from TV and football stars, flying lessons and VIP tickets to see Elton John on his farewell tour.
Highlighting the importance of the charity’s work, guest of honour and speaker David Scanlan made an emotive speech about his daughter Willow, who was cared for by CHAS at home in Aberdeen and Balloch.
Mr Scanlan, accompanied by wife Gina, shared his family’s story and told the ladies about the support they received during the most difficult time imaginable.
Maria McGill, chief executive at CHAS, said: “We currently support 48 children and their siblings and families from the northeast – but we want to go further and support every baby, child and young person who needs us right across Grampian.
“This year, our commitment to reach every family in Scotland has seen us expand our Aberdeen team. With the support of the Aberdeen ladies, we’ve appointed a new CHAS Diana Children’s Nurse, based at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital.
“We’re recruiting a new social worker for Aberdeen, and a new full-time volunteering lead who will work alongside volunteers to support families in their own homes.
“In addition, we are working with NHS Grampian to increase specialist medical support in this part of Scotland. However, the difficult truth remains that the number of families who need our support is rising.
“We can’t tackle that goal without the generosity of supporters like the Aberdeen Ladies Lunch network, who have raised an incredible amount to help us with our work in the region. I would also like to say a heartfelt thank you to David Scanlan, our guest of honour, for speaking so eloquently about the journey his family have been on.”