Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO (SC031541) is delighted to announce its remarkable success at the prestigious National Scottish Thistle Awards, held last week. The organisation proudly took home the ‘Celebrating Thriving Communities’ Award, a testament to its outstanding commitment to fostering community spirit and preserving Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
The Scottish Thistle Awards, widely regarded as the pinnacle of excellence in Scotland’s tourism and hospitality sector, honour organisations and individuals making extraordinary contributions to their communities. This recognition highlights the outstanding work of FoDC in engaging the local community, promoting heritage education, and nurturing a thriving visitor destination at Dundonald Castle.
We were up against amazing competition from All Roads Lead to Whithorn, Whithorn, The Enchanted Forest Community Trust, Pitlochry, Loch Ness Hub and Travel, Drumnadrochit and We Too!, Aberdeen who all do amazing work with their communities. We are truly honoured to have been in a category with you all. Congratulations to all and to all of the amazing winners.
A Heartfelt Achievement
The award celebrates the charity’s innovative projects that bring history to life and inspire both locals and visitors. From immersive castle tours to educational programmes and volunteer initiatives, FoDC has worked tirelessly to ensure the 14th-century castle is a vibrant hub for learning, exploration, and community connection.
Chairperson of Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO, Anne Campbell expressed their delight:
“Winning the Celebrating Thriving Communities Award is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our entire team—staff, volunteers, community and supporters. This recognition validates our efforts to create a welcoming and enriching space that serves not only as a window into Scotland’s past but also as a beacon for community engagement in the present.”
Looking Ahead
Building on this incredible milestone, Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO is excited to expand its outreach and further its mission to preserve and promote Dundonald Castle as a vibrant community asset. Future plans include the continued development of the Visitor Centre and community hub, as well as strengthening collaborations with supporters to enhance tourism opportunities and foster community wellbeing.
South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Councillor Bob Pollock, said: “I’m delighted that the staff and volunteers at Friends of Dundonald Castle have been recognised at the National Scottish Thistle Awards for their outstanding work in South Ayrshire. South Ayrshire Council is committed to supporting local wealth building and it has been a pleasure to work with the Friends of Dundonald Castle.”
South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs, Councillor Alec Clark, said: “This award recognises the hard work and dedication of the staff and volunteers from Friends of Dundonald Castle. Dundonald Castle is a part of South Ayrshire’s rich history that attracts visitors from all over the world to South Ayrshire. I encourage everyone to visit this fantastic landmark.”
South Ayrshire Provost, Iain Campbell, said: “Congratulations to Friends of Dundonald Castle on this great achievement. It’s wonderful to see the group getting recognition for all the wonderful work they do within the community, and their dedication to educating future generations on South Ayrshire’s heritage. We are very proud of the contribution you make to South Ayrshire.”
About Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO
Friends of Dundonald Castle SCIO is a charitable organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic Dundonald Castle, fostering community engagement, and enhancing Scotland’s cultural and natural heritage. Through education, volunteer opportunities, and sustainable tourism, the charity enriches lives while ensuring the castle’s legacy for generations to come.
