Hello, former pupils and generous hands.

I'm Iain, and I work in fundraising for the Edinburgh Children's Hospital Charity — colloquially known as Sick Kids. We've recently had some exciting news at the hospital that I'd love to share with you all.

I'm sure you all remember the surreal experience of playing in the playground, only to momentarily become aware of your surroundings and gaze up in awe at the looming castle atop the mound. In the summer months, if you were like my brother, you might have even closely monitored the progress of the Tattoo scaffolding.

Did you know that next year marks the 75th anniversary of the Tattoo? How time flies. Did you also know that, as part of this anniversary, the Tattoo is donating up to £160,000 to charity as part of a public vote? Amazingly, the Edinburgh Children's Hospital is one of the shortlisted charities to win!

 The original Edinburgh Hospital for Sick Children first opened in 1860 at No. 7 Lauriston Lane — making us former neighbours.

So, what better place to share the news of how you can support a cause that was once close in geographical location and is hopefully still close to many people's hearts?

Cutting right to the chase, here is a link to place your vote for the Tattoo's 75th-anniversary competition: https://buff.ly/4g3diGl.

Any votes for ECHC would make a huge difference to so many seriously ill children and their families facing life-changing hospital stays in Edinburgh.

Voting closes on 5th January 2025. We'd greatly appreciate your support.