Star-studded reception for Heart of Scotland appeal at London’s Dover House

A host of high-profile Scottish celebrities, including Bill Paterson, Richard Wilson and Jane McCarry, pledged their support to Heart Research UK’s ‘Heart of Scotland Appeal’ with a reception at London’s Dover House.

Hosted by the Rt Hon David Mundell, Secretary of State for Scotland and sponsored by Aberdeen Standard Investments, the exclusive event saw leading figures from Scottish business, politics, arts and entertainment come together to show their support for the Heart of Scotland appeal, a new campaign to raise funds for pioneering research in to the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease at Scottish universities and hospitals.

41 people a day die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Scotland every day, causing more than a quarter of all deaths in the country.

People living in Scotland are also almost twice as likely to die from CVD than people living in the South East of England.

The Heart of Scotland Appeal features a striking t-shirt and four coloured badges designed by acclaimed Scottish fashion designer Christopher Kane, each with their own unique message: Live, Life, Brave, Care. These can be purchased at heartofscotland.org.uk.

The world of fashion was well represented, with Christopher Kane continuing his support the campaign alongside sister Tammy Kane. Also in attendance were designers Erdem Moralıoğlu and Patrick Grant, as well as Dr Tessa Hartmann CBE.

The Secretary of State said: “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.

“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.”

Jane McCarry said: “Growing up in Glasgow, like lots of Scots, I was faced with the stark reality of heart disease. My dad had a massive heart attack when I was 18 and my best pal lost her dad when she was just 11.

“But what I didn’t realise was that heart disease kills three times as many women in Scotland as breast cancer. We need to take action on the nation’s biggest killer, so I’m proud to pledge my support to the Heart of Scotland appeal.

Gary Marshall, Head of EMEA at Aberdeen Standard Investments, 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.”

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.”

To get involved with the Heart of Scotland appeal, visit heartofscotland.org.uk or call 0113 234 7474.