Banchory bangle inspired by Deeside’s birch woodlands

By Chris Cromar

November 22 2022, 5:13 pm

This year's Banchory Bangle that is up for raffle. Image: McDaid PR.

Deeside’s birch woodlands are the inspiration for this year’s charity Banchory Bangle Raffle.

The annual raffle has been raising funds for charity Children 1st since 1976, with acclaimed jeweller and designer Malcolm Appleby designing a new bangle every year from recycled gold and silver.

His efforts and people’s enthusiasm for the bangle have greatly impacted Children 1st’s work in the north-east, with the raffle raising £184,000 over the years.

The first prize is a bespoke bangle made from 18 carat yellow gold, plus a copy in silver, while second is a copy of the bangle in silver and the third prize is one in bronze.

‘The Banchory Bangle has become a wonderful tradition’

Mr Appleby said: “Although the design for the Banchory Bangle changes every year, it’s always inspired by nature. This year I decided to celebrate the birch tree, which was once predominant in Deeside.

“Along the lengths of the bangle are branches of birch folding inwards and interlacing. There’s a song thrush singing merrily at the top of the tree and there is a speckled wood butterfly, which we’re finding in Deeside now. There’s also a recently arrived nuthatch running down the trunk.

Designer Malcolm Appleby called the Banchory Bangle a “wonderful tradition”. Image: Malcolm Appleby.

“I always engage the inside of the gold bangle with the year in question, but this year I’ve added a little extra. There are some chanterelle mushrooms, which rely on birch woodlands to survive while also nurturing them. It’s a little touch that shows biodiversity.

“The Banchory Bangle has become a wonderful tradition that’s made possible with the support of people in Banchory and around the world, as well as our sponsors. I’m sure this year’s Banchory Bangle will find a great home.”

‘The money raised goes towards supporting children and families’

Jane Grieve from the Children 1st Deeside committee said: “Malcolm’s bracelets are truly beautiful and there’s something rather lovely about them being made from recycled gold and silver.

The annual raffle raises money for Children 1st. Image: Kevin Emslie.

“I hope as many people as possible buy a raffle ticket in the time left and put themselves in the running to win this stunning creation.

“The money raised goes towards supporting children and families who are facing really challenging circumstances this winter. It’s more than a one-off donation or gift, these families can access ongoing financial and emotional support and much more from Children 1st.”