Douglas Ross gives cash backing to Moray Badge Platinum Jubilee Project that gets kids outdoors
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Douglas Ross' latest monthly MSP wage packet has been donated to a project that's encouraging young people to re-engage with life following last year's lockdowns.
A total of 3500 youngsters from 33 different schools are taking part in the Moray Badge Platinum Jubilee Project.
Running as a one-off to celebrate the Queen's 70th year on the throne, the project gets them taking part in new interests, activities and skills outdoors.
The original Moray Badge was launched at Gordonstoun and Elgin Academy in 1936.
One of its first recipients of the Moray Badge was the young Prince Philip.
Years later, he went on to draw on the experience when setting up his own Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Some of the youngsters taking part currently are from Dallas Primary School.
Emily-Rose Logan, who's in P5, said: "It's fun, getting active. Me and my brother love it."
Rose Owen (P6) agreed: "I've learned lots of things about wildlife and about my community."
The school's head teacher Mairi Grant said: "Whether it's searching for conkers in the woods or making a kite to fly, it’s a fantastic initiative to encourage children to try new things."
Badges and certificates will be presented at an award ceremony in the summer.
Mr Ross, who is a list MSP for the Highlands and Islands as well as Moray's MP, is only accepting one salary after being elected to Holyrood last May.
Instead, he's handing over the money to local charities.
Mr Ross said: "I know the Moray Badge Platinum Jubilee Project is doing fantastic work which is welcomed by teachers in the area.
"In this Jubilee year it's great to see the project go from strength to strength.
"It also reminds us of the part played by Moray in the success of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
"I know these funds will be put to good use by the project."
