Independent family run business Berriedale Funeral Home, has renewed its commitment to Aberdeen FC (AFC) and the local community with the continuation of its innovative partnership offering memorable experiences for individuals who are navigating challenging times.
Following a successful collaboration last season, Berridale and AFC will continue to work together to offer exclusive experiences aimed at creating cherished memories, harnessing the true sense of community spirit.
Throughout last season Berridale successfully embraced that sense of community through the use of an Executive Box at Pittodrie and this experience will continue thanks to this renewed partnership. The box allows family members to enjoy a match in a safe and comforting environment as they come together to share stories and find solace in the company of fellow Dons supporters during their period of grief.
One family, who recently lost their son and made use of the hospitality box spoke of their gratitude at having such a space. Ted Emslie said: “Our visit to Pittodrie enabled us to celebrate the life of our son Gavin Emslie who tragically passed away in March this year. This was a tonic for our family and friends as we continue to grief and it will remain a lasting memory for us all as we gathered together to celebrate his life.”
Alongside the Club, Berridale will also continue to honour the lives of Dons fans and their family members by hosting memorial ceremonies and funeral teas at Pittodrie celebrating the lives of their loved ones in a supportive and respectful environment.
William Paterson (Funeral Director at Berriedale), Gary Herbert (AFC) and Stephen Westall (Ivee Solutions for Berriedale).
This season will also see the return of ‘Memorial Moment’ where supporters will get the chance to remember Dons fans who have sadly passed away with a remembrance accompanied by a piper, together with their names printed in the match day programme and displayed on the LED advertising boards.
William Paterson, Funeral Director, Berriedale of Berriedale Funeral Home said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with AFC. Last season was pivotal for us as a local business as we extended our care beyond the traditional funeral service and were able to offer real moments of joy for many during times of need. One particular highlight was our Random Acts of Kindness event which saw over 300 people gather at Pittodrie to share messages of kindness and hope.
“Looking ahead to our second season with the Dons we will be extending the services we can offer to local families, particularly those who cannot attend games due to special needs and will be working alongside charities like Friends of Anchor and Camphill School to provide compassion and support in a unique manner.
“We would encourage all supporters who believe loved ones could benefit from this unique relationship with the Dons to reach out to us at info@berriedale.net.”
Commenting on this renewed partnership, Gary Herbert, Business Development Manager at Aberdeen FC added: “As a Club rooted in the heart of its community, partnerships such as this one with Berriedale align perfectly with everything that AFC stands for. We recognise that we can be a source of comfort and inspiration for many, it is more than just a football club, and thanks to the innovative thinking of Berridale we can now work together to offer support to many of our fans during incredibly challenging periods.
“We look forward to working alongside the team at Berridale to continue to uplift spirits and offer compassionate care and support in our local community.”