Pupils’ projects impress Sir Tom
The son of a piper in the Scots Guards treasures a D- Day relic from his father.
Daniel Buchanan, known as Piper Dan, was 15 and working in Climie’s Butcher Shop on Ayr High Street when he joined the army in 1927.
Field Marshall Montgomery sent a message to be read to troops before D- Day and a copy was given to Dan by his commanding officer.
Son Charles said: “It’s been verified that this is the original document.
“My dad gave me it before he died and it’s my most treasured possession.”
Ths message, dated June 5 1944, reads: “The time has come to deal the enemy a terrific blow in Western Europe.
“On the eve of this great adventure I send my best wishes to every solider in the Allied team. With stout hearts, and with enthusiasm for the contest, let us go to victory.”
Doon Academy was crowned joint winner of the Sir Tom Hunter Enterprise Challenge for the second year running.
The team created board games based on Jenga and Snakes and Ladders that encourage young people to talk about their mental health.
During their business pitch the pupils talked about their own mental health struggles.
Doon shared first place with Largs Academy, who are running a boutique cinema in their school.
Sir Tom announced that each school would receive a prize of £ 4000 to help them develop their businesses.
Kilmarnock Academy lifted the third prize of £ 2000 with their company FOB ( Finish Off Bullying).
Sir Tom Hunter said: “All of the schools were winners. Their drive, determination and innovation were an inspiration.”
East Ayrshire Council’s deputy leader Elena Whitham said: “I’m incredibly proud of our young people.”