To mark Highland Hospice’s 35th anniversary, Tomatin Distillery is releasing a limited edition whisky in its honour.
The distillery plans to release 35 bottles of 35-year-old whisky on Thursday, November 17, exactly 35 years since it helped its first patient.
Highland Hospice was set up in 1983 by Flora MacKay and Cecilia Bottomley, who started raising funds to offer the best care and support for people in the Highlands.
On November 17, 1987, the first patient was cared for at the day hospice in Inverness, and a year later, the purpose-built inpatient unit opened.
The following three decades saw huge growth in the organisation, as it expanded and renovated its riverside premises.
‘Celebrate this milestone anniversary.’
On November 17, 2016 the new Highland Hospice cared for its first patients.
Highland Hospice has several services for those in need, including rehabilitation, volunteer befriending, occupational therapy and family support.
It also operates 15 charity shops, two cafes and even a miniature railway and requires more than £ 7,000 a day to run all services.
The cost of continuing is likely to go up due over the coming winter.
Kenny Steele, Highland Hospice’s chief executive, said: “We hugely appreciate this generous donation from Tomatin Distillery, who have been key supporters of the hospice since the very beginning.
“Celebrating 35 years of care is a wonderful milestone for us, and I can’t think of a better way to mark the occasion.”
Mr Steele said he had enjoyed a recent visit to the distillery. He selected the cask that the whisky will now come from.
Tomatin Distillery director Stephen Bremner said: “The Highland Hospice provide vital support to our local community.
“We are delighted to be able to help them celebrate this milestone anniversary and also help to raise awareness of the incredible work they do.”
The special 35th-anniversary whisky will be available from the Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre for £1,250.
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