It’s the end of the road for tartan car
Highlander II donated to Dundee museum
A Perth man has donated a car that helped raise thousands of pounds towards cancer research to the Dundee Museum of Transport.
Highlander II, a 25-year-old tartan clad Fiesta, was handed over to the team at the motor museum on Wednesday to bring an end to its incredible journey.
The car, along with Highlander I, was bought and designed by retired Perth businessman Gordon Blair who, alongside his two friends Jo Williamson and Richard Wright, drove the cars on the 25,000km Mongol Rally route to raise money for cancer research.
The team raised money towards research for a cure for pheochromocytoma, a rare, hereditary tumour that took the life of Jo’s wife, Sue. Jo’s adult twins Jennie Chinembiri and James Williamson have also been diagnosed with having the tumour.
Gordon (73) said: “[I was] going to auction off both cars and gift the proceeds to the charity but decided, after seeing and speaking with the museums very enthusiastic committee running such a wonderful display, that it would be the ideal place for its permanent retirement and allow the public to see such a unique vehicle and what it achieved. Gordon Blair (far left), his wife Betty, manager Samantha Walker and volunteers from Dundee Museum of Transport
“As dash cams were fitted to both vehicles it is hoped that a short film showing the car in action over the 25,000 kilometres covering 24 countries will also be included in the display.
“Numerous interesting photographs will also be on show.”
Gordon also said that he was willing to gift the other fundraising motor, Highlander I, to any other good
charitable cause for permanent display.
If no other permanent home for the car can be found Gordon said he would auction it off and donate the proceeds to charity to help fund research.
Since completing the epic rally challenge in August the total amount of money raised so far is now in excess of £17,000 and donations are still incoming.
“Local businesses, friends and the general public have been absolutely amazing in there contribution,” Gordon continued. “For this I must say a very special thank you.
“During my life I have been extremely successful and been involved in many successful businesses, but nothing can compare with the satisfaction I have felt raising so much money for others to help save lives.
“How short life is and how much we take things for granted not realising the problems that so many people have and need help.”
Dundee Museum of Transport manager Sam Walker said: “Dundee Museum of Transport is delighted to accept the tartan Fiesta as a donation and we would like to thank Gordon for his generosity.
“The car has been on quite a journey and is a sight to behold.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the Fiesta on display in the museum for the 2019 season and hopefully we can get it out to a couple of shows for the wider public to enjoy.”
To donate, send a cheque to “Findacure” Boatland, Isla Road, Perth, PH2 7HQ. All money received will be donated under the Just Giving regulations.
Donations can also be made online to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/pheo-research