Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) is preparing to roll out the red carpet to welcome guests to its tartan-trimmed St Andrew’s Day Gala Ball.
The fun-filled fundraiser at Crieff Hydro on November 30 will mark SCAA’s 11 years as a key player in the national emergency service network and celebrate all things Scottish in an evening of entertainment, enjoyment and emotion.
Hosted by comedian Fred MacAulay and sponsored by Edradour Distillery, the black-tie event is open to all, and supporters have been eagerly snapping up tickets.
With only a limited number of tables now available, SCAA events officer Caryn Whitelaw said she was “thrilled” by the show of support from the public for the charity.
“This is the first time SCAA has staged a major event in Perthshire – the birthplace of the charity and home to our headquarters base at Perth Airport since we launched in 2013,” she said.
“We have been heartened and humbled by the many businesses, organisations and individuals who have stepped up to help support what we’re sure will be a fantastic evening.
“Everyone recognises the vital life-saving role SCAA plays in Scotland and either want to support the event through sponsorship or auction and raffle donations or buy tickets to join in the fun. We are hugely grateful to so many.”
Among those supporting the SCAA St Andrew’s Day ball are key sponsors Edradour Distillery; programme sponsor Babcock; champagne raffle sponsor GS Brown; auctioneer Nick Burns from Lindsay Burns & Co auctioneers and valuers; Pipe Major Ross McNaughton of Tay Piping and drinks reception sponsor and event support Crieff Hydro.
Andrew Symington, owner and managing director of Edradour Distillery said everyone at Edradour was proud to support SCAA for what is shaping up to be a tremendous event.
“We recognise that SCAA serves all of Scotland, including the Highland community that has shaped Edradour’s spirit and story over the years and we’re delighted to support SCAA in their fundraising event to ensure those communities - and others - have SCAA available when illness or injury strikes”.
Experienced host comedian Fred MacAulay is also returning to his Perthshire roots to host the November 30 event.
“I’ve been aware of the amazing work SCAA does for many years now and been privileged to officiate at several awards ceremonies where the charity is recognised and rewarded for its life-saving service,” he said.
“It’s an absolute honour to be asked to host their St Andrew’s Day Gala Ball and join in the fun and entertainment – as well as acknowledge the very serious nature of the charity’s work – with over 300 guests. We look forward to a grand night.”
In addition to Fred’s banter, guests will enjoy a drinks reception, three-course meal with wine, champagne raffle, silent and live auction and dancing to Scotland’s premier ceilidh band Whisky Kiss.
There will also be the chance to hear from crew members on the frontline of the charity and patients whose lives have been touched by the work supported entirely by public donation.
“SCAA owes its existence to those who have donated so generously over the past 11 years, ensuring we are there whenever and wherever serious illness or injury strikes,” added Caryn.
“Nobody in Scotland should die because they can’t get help in time and those attending and supporting the Gala Ball will help fly SCAA into the future for those most in need.
“SCAA has always been known as the ‘People’s Helicopter’, funded by the people of Scotland for the people of Scotland and our St Andrew’s Night event is a chance for people to show their support yet again and have a fantastic time doing so.”
Tickets cost £80 per person or £800 for a table of 10.
For more information, please visit: www.scaa-charityball2024.com where you can also join in the online auction or contact SCAA direct at: scaaball@scaa.org.uk or call 0300 123 1111.
