FIFE: James Donaldson & Sons had the pleasure of welcoming Royalty to it’s sawmill last week, as the company was visited by HRH the Duke of York.
Prince Andrew was on site to honour the 150th anniversary of James Donaldson & Sons, and spent time with the company looking around the sawmill and learning about the business.
To mark his visit and the anniversary of the timber company, the Duke unveiled a commemorative sculpture which had been carved out of a tree, representing a lumberjack from 1860 when the company was founded.
Following introductions to the Donaldson’s management and a group of local school children, the Duke presented the company’s longest-serving employee Mr Andy Waddell with a certificate to thank him for his long and loyal service. Mr Waddell has been with Donaldson’s for 50 years, and has been present at not only the 150th celebration, but also the 125th and, remarkably, the 100th anniversary celebrations.
During the visit, Prince Andrew learned with particular interest about the Donaldson Leadership Academy, which Donaldson’s set up in recognition of the milestone anniversary.
The charity takes local young people to Columba 1400 on the Isle of Skye to help them develop confidence, team skills and leadership qualities. In the last two years, 32 youngsters from the Levenmouth area where the company is based have benefited from the charity.
