Scotland's children’s charity Aberlour has released an illustrated book to tell the story of its 140 year history, with the generous support of Aberdeen designers, writers and artists.
‘The Story Of Aberlour‘ which was launched at a reception at the National Museum of Scotland with the First Minister, was produced by Aberdeen companies Bread PR and Imajica Brand Evolution, to celebrate the charity’s special milestone.
It features the real words and stories of those supported by the organisation through the ages, from its inception as Aberlour Orphanage in 1875, to present day in one of more than 40 projects around the country.
Today Aberlour is there for children, young people and families across Scotland, helping transform lives for the better. The charity supports them through challenges like living with a disability, growing up in and leaving care, and the impact of drugs and alcohol on families.
Imajica, who designed the book free of charge as a charitable gesture, sourced the support of talented North-east artist Emma Galloway who brought the story to life with her lively and colourful illustrations on every page.
The story was written by the late Jean McLeish, a former BBC journalist and writer at Bread PR, who passed away after a short period of ill health late last year.
Marie-Claire Jones, Head of Marketing and Fundraising at Aberlour, said: “We are delighted to have benefited from the generous support of talented and creative professionals in Aberdeen, to help us tell the unique story of our 140 year history.
“We are hugely grateful to all at Imajica and Bread PR for helping us create a truly memorable piece of material, to celebrate our anniversary and we are especially honoured to have worked with Jean McLeish on the book.
“Jean was clearly moved by each interview she conducted while writing the story and her talent and passion really shine through in her words. She was a pleasure to work with and is much missed by all of us who knew her.”
Sue Fay, Operations Director at Bread PR, said: “Bread has supported Aberlour for a number of years so were delighted to be involved in creating something special to commemorate this incredible milestone.”
Jeff Riley, Director at Imajica Brand Evolution, said: “When Aberlour asked Imajica to get involved with the illustrated storybook project the team were determined to create something unique to commemorate the charity’s 140th anniversary.
“It’s been an amazing journey for the children in the book who have shared their stories and I hope we have done them proud.”
To view a digital version of ‘The Story Of Aberlour’, visit www.aberlour.org.uk/story