The Black Watch Heritage appeal is set to go global thanks to a tie-in with a leading cruise line.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines will promote the appeal to retain and enhance the Balhousie Castle home of the regiment in Perth on their liners, one of which is the appropriately named Black Watch.
Passengers sailing to every corner of the globe will find literature about the appeal in their cabins and will be urged to join the Friends of The Black Watch Castle and Museum.
With a name that has resonated through the years on every continent, it is hoped the uptake in membership will be significant, helping the appeal reach its multi-million-pound target.
The museum trust’s chief executive, Alfie Iannetta said, “We are extremely grateful to Fred Olsen Cruise Lines for the level of support that they have given The Black Watch Museum and our Friends organisation.
“The exposure to the customer base of such an internationally renowned firm will enable us to spread the story and legacy of The Black Watch worldwide.
“As the Black Watch ship cruises the world all on board will be able to learn about the deeds of Black Watch soldiers over nearly 300 years and the part they played in shaping the world.”Ms Jackson and Mr Iannetta are pictured with a model of the boat.The appeal, started in September 2008, aims to raise £3.2 million to redevelop the castle and museum to include restaurant facilities, educational space, enhanced museum exhibitions, improved archive facilities and additional parking.
So far more than £2 million has been raised, allowing the trust to buy Balhousie Castle from the Ministry of Defence. The trust is now working on stage two of its application to The Heritage Lottery Fund for £750,000.
Rachael Jackson, of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, visited Perth to meet the trustees and staff and learn about the legacy of The Black Watch regiment.
She said, “I am delighted to be visiting the historic home of such an eminent and illustrious regiment as The Black Watch.
“Through the links with our Black Watch cruise ship, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has been working with The Black Watch Museum Trust to promote the legacy of the regiment amongst its loyal guests.
“Plans are under way to update the exhibition of the regiment’s military regalia on board Black Watch, and we hope that this will give even more people the opportunity to experience the proud military heritage of this family regiment.”