Flying the flag for the Hebrides

AGGREGATE Industries, who have been operating in Scotland's Western Isles for more than 65 years, have rebranded their business in the region as Bardon Hebrides in recognition of its involvement with the local community.

The company, which has grown over time to become one of the islands’ largest employers, with employees working in a range of quarrying, concrete, asphalt and contracting operations, celebrated the rebranding by inviting over 150 local residents and representatives from various organizations to a special open day featuring traditional Gaelic music, food and a guided tour of Marybank Quarry, Stornoway.

Speaking at the open day, Aggregate Industries’ group chief executive, Bill Bolsover, said: ‘Aggregate Industries have always enjoyed a positive relationship with the residents and communities here and have worked hard to be a good neighbour.

‘It is in recognition of this close working relationship that we feel the time has come to show how we, as a business, rely on the support and understanding of the people of the Western Isles. As a dedication to the people and beauty of the Western Isles, I am delighted to announce that the business will now be known as Bardon Hebrides.’

Bardon Hebrides will be sponsoring the Western Isles Island Games Association when it competes in this year’s Island Games, to be held on Rhodes in Greece from 30 June to 6 July. This will be the second time the Western Isles have competed in the games, taking on seven different sports throughout the week.

As a result of the sponsorship and the ongoing support of Bardon Hebrides, the Western Isles team has also received a grant of nearly £5,500 from the sportsmatch scheme, which is administered by sportscotland. The scheme supports grass-roots sports and endeavours to develop relationships between businesses and community sport.

In addition, the company, which has been a major sponsor of the Feis nan Coisir Festival for over 12 years, will continue to sponsor and support the islands’ unique Gaelic culture with a new initiative, the Bardon Hebrides Music Fund, which will help young students learn about local musical traditions.

Angus MacLeod, Western Isles director for the company, said: ‘Historically, the lack of funding available for specialist music tutors in local schools has hampered the development of talented young musicians. This is set to change as Bardon Hebrides is funding the cost of a music tutor who will visit the islands regularly, ensuring that locals receive the tuition they need, in order to fully develop their talents and skills.’