A Scottish photographer has created a calendar featuring images from across the country to raise funds for young people in the north-east.
Bryan Evans has collated 12 stunning photos of Scotland’s wildlife, countryside and architecture for the calendar to benefit Befriend a Child.
He knows first-hand the importance of the mentoring relationships they provide having previously been a befriender for the north-east charity.
Making a positive difference
“I wanted to be able to continue to help what I feel is a fantastic cause that does so much good for the community I have called home for over a decade now,” said Mr Evans.
“Growing up in a pretty rough area outside of Glasgow, I was very fortunate that I had a superb role model in my grandpa. If it wasn’t for that, I am not sure what I would have gone on to do.
“He made all the difference in my choices in life and I wanted to do the same for someone else.
“Befriending was incredibly rewarding – I felt like I was making a small positive difference to a kid who needed it.
“I don’t have kids of my own, so it certainly gave me a new found respect of the challenges parents with teenagers face. I already considered myself an empathetic person, but certainly this made me a better listener, and more considered in my advice and responses to questions.”
Photos in the calendar were taken by Mr Evans at locations across Scotland, including Calton Hill in Edinburgh and the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
A lifeline for children in the north-east
Befriend a Child supports school-aged children across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire who are growing up in difficult life circumstances.
It is a “lifeline” for those they support and the funds raised by the calendar will allow them to continue their befriending programme.
There has been a “steady influx” of referrals since it re-opened its waiting list and there are currently 50 children looking for befrienders and mentors.
Tara Morrison, fundraising and marketing coordinator for the charity, said: “We are incredibly grateful for Bryan’s hard work and generosity.
“He has a wonderful eye for photography and it’s amazing that he’s using his gift to help local children.”
The calendar costs £15, with 100% of the profits going to Befriend a Child, and is available to order online here.