Slate art tribute to United title heroes

ABroughty Ferry businesswoman has created a custom range of commemorative slates for the 40th anniversary of Dundee United’s league win.

Orla Timmins set up Ginger Pixie Designs in January, after using the last of her savings on a secondhand computer, sublimation printer and heat press.

As her mum lost three siblings to cancer over lockdown, Orla made her memorial slates.

She posted pictures of the items on Facebook and got positive feedback from friends and family.

After meeting with business support group E3, the artist took her products to Tannadice Park and hoped for the best.

Orla said: “I left some samples of coasters and this big slate with an aerial view of the stadium.

“Their head of retail operations Stuart Bootland contacted me and asked me to pop in for a chat.

“He wanted a limited edition legend range with photos from 1983 and ordered 180 units.”

Ginger Pixie Designs’ seven commemorative slates and one glass block are already on display in the Dundee United shop and on the team’s website.

The smaller slates cost £24, while the glass block and largest slates cost £30.

Orla has also been asked to do a continuous range of coasters for the club in the future.

Mr Bootland says they are passionate about championing local suppliers who offer unique products.

He said: “Dundee United are built on tradition with our history deep-rooted in the community.

“Following their work with our commercial department for match-day sponsors gifts, Ginger Pixie have developed a stunning slate gifting range to commemorate the 40th anniversary of our 1983 Scottish Premier Division Champions title win.

“We are looking forward to the response from our supporters.”

As well as running Ginger Pixie, Orla is Women’s Business Station’s new market and events coordinator.

Her products are on display in the company’s Wellgate base, her online shop and she also attends local markets.

Orla offers both custom designs, and works with photographers and artists printing their images on slates.

She said: “The memorials are my favourite ones because it has that extra emotional side.

“I want the slate to be perfect for the person receiving it.

“Anything can go on them – it’s incredible this big Scottish football club want to work with little old me.”

GLORY DAYS: A Dundee United 1983 commemorative slate created by local designer Orla Timmins, and below, a glass block featuring the title celebrations on display in the Tannadice club shop.