Reception at Dover House for appeal taking on heart disease in Scotland

Dover House, the London HQ of the Scotland Office, is hosting a reception for Heart Research UK’s Heart of Scotland Appeal, a dedicated fundraiser to take on heart disease, Scotland’s single biggest killer.

A host of high profile Scottish supporters are coming together at the exclusive event, which takes place on Wednesday 12 June as part of the build up to Heart of Scotland day on 21 June, the longest day of the year.

The Heart of Scotland Appeal, launched at the Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh in April, is a new campaign from national charity Heart Research UK to raise money to be spent at Scottish hospitals and universities.

The money raised will fund pioneering research in to the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease.

Renowned names from the world of politics, television and music will be attending the event with celebrated actor Richard Wilson, who famously played Victor Meldrew in ‘One Foot in the Grave’, sharing his own personal story following his heart attack in 2016.

The reception is kindly supported by Aberdeen Standard Investments, and is hosted by the Rt Hon David Mundell, Secretary of State for Scotland. 

“It is a sobering thought that today in Scotland, 41 people will die because of a heart condition. And tomorrow, another 41. And the next day, and every subsequent day, the same. But we can fight back,” said the Secretary of State.

“That is why I am proud to back Heart Research UK in their new drive to raise funds in Scotland. The Heart of Scotland Appeal is a chance for us all to play our part to help more people live longer and healthier lives, and raise awareness that research really can make a difference in tackling such life threatening conditions.”

“All so that the money raised in Scotland, and spent in Scotland, can change more lives in Scotland for the better.”

Gary Marshall, Head of EMEA at Aberdeen Standard Investments, is scheduled to attend the reception on behalf of the company. He said:

“Heart disease continues to be a significant cause of death in Scotland and is a national clinical priority. As a major company headquartered in Scotland, we consider it our duty, and are delighted, to support such a worthy cause and play a small part in helping more people live healthier lives.”

The Heart of Scotland Appeal features an exclusive t-shirt and range of striking badges, all designed by internationally acclaimed Scottish designer Christopher Kane.

Christopher Kane said: “The Heart of Scotland appeal is a cause that is literally so close to my heart, anything that can raise awareness and potentially save lives is always worthwhile.

“Growing up in Scotland in a working class environment, heart disease was always prevalent. So many of my parent’s family and friends passed at an early age from “heart attacks” and no one blinked an eye.”

“So it’s good to be part of (albeit in a small way) educating and reinforcing preventive measures, this saves so much heart ache.”

The appeal has already seen widespread support from a whole host of Scottish names, including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, David Moyes, Rory Bremner, Amy Macdonald, Iain Glen, Val Mcdermid and Jane McCarry.

To get involved with the Heart of Scotland appeal, please visit heartofscotland.org.uk, or email [email protected].