Pioneer of isle tweed industry’s revival dies at 77

THE woman credited with helping to revive the fortunes of Harris Tweed has died, aged 77.

Maureen Mackay and her husband, weaver Donald John, helped rejuvenate the industry after a crisis in the late Eighties.

They set up the Luskentyre Harris Tweed Company on Harris, helping turn the cloth into an iconic fashion brand.

The breakthrough came after an order from fashion giant Nike in 2003. Subsequent interest from other designers helped introduce Harris Tweed to a new, younger audience.

Chief executive of the Harris Tweed Authority Lorna Macaulay led tributes to Mrs Mackay yesterday.

She said: ‘Maureen Mackay’s contribution to the Harris Tweed industry will be very greatly

‘Loyal ambassadors’

missed. Together with her beloved husband Donald John, they have worked quietly and tirelessly as loyal ambassadors for our unique Harris Tweed industry for many years.’

She added: ‘Doing so from the setting of their own home and business a stone’s throw from the powder white sands of Luskentyre beach, it is little wonder so many of these visitors were converted to the wonderful story and became customers of the Harris Tweed industry.

‘Maureen’s business acumen quite perfectly complemented Donald John’s unquestionable talent for design and creativity.’

Mrs Mackay accompanied her husband to Buckingham Palace in 2012 when he received an MBE for his services to the industry. He was awarded the Weavers’ Company Silver Medal by the Worshipful Company of Weavers a year later.

Mrs Mackay is survived by her husband, son Jeff and daughter Debbie.