A determined group of Moray volunteers have banded together to create a touching memorial for loved ones lost to cancer.
Tomintoul residents have planted about 8,000 daffodil bulbs in the last week to create a “field of hope” for those with the devastating disease.
In spring, the patch at the roadside on the B9008 approach to the village will become an eye-catching bright yellow landmark to raise awareness of Marie Curie Cancer Care.
Tomintoul residents Mike and Des Budd organised the tribute after losing family members to the illness. Both of Mr Budd’s parents died from the disease in the mid-1990s before Mrs Budd lost her mother in 1998.
The family has been rocked again recently with Mrs Budd still grieving for two brothers who have died in the last 18 months.
Yesterday Moray MSP Richard Lochhead, whose wife is battling breast cancer, joined the couple and others to plant the final bulbs.
Mr Budd said: “We’ve always admired the field of hope in Elgin and decided it was about time we did something too.
“It’s something to make people smile again. We’ve lost people to cancer and there are a lot of people in the village who are the same.”
After setting his mind on creating the floral display Mr Budd recruited a local farmer to plough the land for the bulbs.
About a dozen volunteers have worked flat-out to lay the foundations for the display that will come to fruition early next year.
Charlie Stewart, who has lost two wives to the disease, was among those who felt compelled to make a personal contribution to help.
He said: “It’s been difficult but getting involved in this makes it feel like you are doing something to help.”
Pupils from Tomintoul Primary School donned boots to ably assist the volunteers in completing the field.
Wild flowers have also been planted to ensure the bright tribute will continue beyond the daffodils.
Mr Lochhead said: “A field of hope at the gateway to Tomintoul is a poignant tribute to everyone who has helped loved ones and friends with cancer or those who have suffered themselves.
“As someone who has been affected personally I know how hugely challenging it is for many families across Speyside and Moray.”
