John Hunter Barrie's new creation will represent CHAS and Scotmid's partnership
John Hunter Barrie, who worked on many colourful characters over his 38 year career with DC Thomson, is backing Scotmid’s mascot competition for children across Scotland.
The new character will become the face – and hands, feet, horns, fur and who knows what else - of Scotmid’s charity partnership with Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
John has also shot a short drawing masterclass, sharing his top tips and tricks to help children design their friendly, feel-good mascot.
The winning entrant will see their design brought to life. They will also receive a framed print of their character, £200 of fundraising vouchers for their school/group, a CHAS and Scotmid goody bag with exclusive mascot merchandise.
As well as increasing awareness of the incredible work carried out by CHAS, Scotmid aims to raise £350,000 for the charity during the 2021/2022 partnership.
Shirley MacGillivray, head of membership and community at Scotmid, said: “The Scotmid and CHAS mascot competition is such an exciting opportunity. I used to love competitions like this when I was little and we’re so excited to see the wonderful designs. We look forward to having the winning mascot by our side at charity events.”
For nearly 30 years, CHAS has been offering full family support service for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions. Each week, three children die from an incurable condition in Scotland, and the need for CHAS’ services is on the rise. There are more than 16,700 families across Scotland living with the constant fear and heartbreak that their child might die young.
Nicky Bridges, associate director of outreach at CHAS, said: “This is a great opportunity to not only get kids involved in charity work, but to raise awareness of our charity partnership with Scotmid. We are so grateful to Scotmid for helping CHAS reach families across Scotland, even those in the most remote parts, and enable us to provide essential care to those who need it. The creation of this character is a further demonstration of the huge efforts made by Scotmid and we are extremely grateful for that.”
The competition will end on 24 September. Children can submit their entries to competition@scotmid.co.uk or send to Mascot Competition, Scotmid Coop, Hillwood House, Newbridge, EH28 8QJ