This website uses cookies for anonymised analytics and for account authentication. See our privacy and cookies policies for more information.





The voice of Scotland’s vibrant voluntary sector

Published by Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations

TFN is published by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6BB. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Registration number SC003558.

David Attenborough to speak at charity dinner

This news post is about 4 years old
 

The broadcaster and naturalist will answer questions in front of an audience of 800.

Sir David Attenborough has been announced as the guest speaker at a charity dinner being held in Edinburgh next month.

The naturalist and broadcaster will be interviewed on stage at The Hunter Foundation (THF) event at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh on 18th February.

Previous events hosted by THF have attracted speakers including Barack and Michelle Obama and raised more than £1 million for good causes.

Tables at the event start at £5,000 and around 800 people are expected to attend.

THF founder Sir Tom Hunter said: “The climate crisis is one of the greatest threats to the future of our society so what better guest to welcome to Scotland than Sir David Attenborough.

“We look forward to hearing his thoughts on steps we can take as a nation to address the climate emergency, and reflect on his years as a natural historian and broadcaster.”

Funds raised through the dinner, which is being sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland, will be donated to charities chosen by THF.

Malcolm Buchanan, chair of the bank’s board, said: “It is a tremendous privilege to sponsor this event, which will not only raise money for an incredibly worthy cause but further spotlight the need for meaningful action on climate change.

“As we build a purpose-led bank that champions the communities we serve and helps them to thrive, we are determined to play a deeper role for society and help in the transition to a low carbon economy.”

The event is being accompanied by a competition to find Scotland’s next young climate champion.

Schoolchildren are being asked to suggest changes that could be made to protect the environment, with a specific focus on Scotland. The winner will secure a table at the dinner for themselves, their classmates and teachers.

Iain Gulland, chief executive of competition sponsors Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Young people all over the planet have played a vital role in raising awareness of the need to tackle the climate emergency.

“We saw the passion of Scotland’s school pupils during the recent climate strikes and know they can help us identify the solutions we have to find. The world needs fresh ideas for ways we can change our lifestyle and this competition represents a great opportunity for young people to share their thoughts and make a difference.”