A raft of north-east children’s charities have been given a pre-Christmas boost from a historic network of Aberdeen business leaders.

More than a dozen good causes have received a share of £40,000 at the city’s Seven Incorporated Trades, which was founded in 1587.

The group represents crafts including hammermen, bakers, weavers and tailors, and acts as a business network to teach new skills and maintain its centuries-old archives.

And through a plethora of carefully managed investments, it also raises money through the Trades Widows Fund charity to be put back into the communities and areas of the region which need it most.

Last night representatives from 13 different groups attended Trinity Hall on Holburn Street, where their efforts were rewarded with a windfall to help them make a difference in the run-up to Christmas.

Each of the seven trades nominated a charity or charities to benefit from their allocated share of the £40,000 fund, while the organisation’s trustees also selected a cause.

The fleshers – representing butchers – nominated Westhill-based SensationAll, which helps people of all ages with support needs or a disability.

It is planning to use the donation to keep its social groups running for longer or allow them to hold sessions more frequently.

Co-founder Suz Strachan said: “We’re very lucky to have this connection with the Seven Incorporated Trades.

“As a small charity, even a small donation can go a long way for us.”



Archway, which provides care, respite breaks and activities for almost 200 children and adults with learning disabilities, was nominated by the hammermen trade.