To mark International ME Awareness Day 2025 and to recognise the 25th anniversary of the foundation of Perth-based ME Research UK, Provost Xander McDade and Perth and Kinross Council honoured the charity with a Civic Reception on 12th May at the Civic Hall, Perth.
During the event the principal speakers, Deputy Lieutenant Charlie Gallagher, Provost of Perth and Kinross, Provost Xander McDade, and Councillor Michelle Frampton spoke eloquently and with deep understanding of ME, enlightened by their familial experiences of the disease. Indeed, the Provost was also able to recall much of the foundation and evolution of the charity as he had once fundraised for it.
Deputy Lieutenant Gallagher read from a note from Stephen Leckie, Lord-Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross, which narrated many congratulations on the work the charity had done over the past quarter century and that “Everyone in the county is very proud …” of the achievements of a small, local charity.
ME Research UK’s Chair, Jonathan Davies closed the speeches by noting that all at ME Research UK would be happy if the need for the charity passed due to a cure being found.
Also in attendance were the Moderator of The High Constables of Perth, William R.L. Duncan, Alex Rowley MSP, and various councillors and office bearers of Perth & Kinross Council.
One important aspect of the gathering was to pay tribute to the founders of ME Research UK (or MERGE as it once was). In this, Provost McDade was able to speak of the inspiration, efforts and guidance of founders Dr Vance Spence and Bob McRae – Founders, Trustees, Chairman and Secretary respectively, and now Hon Presidents of ME Research UK. Special mention also made to honour and thank Betty McRae (former trustee) and also Linda Spence for all their work and support over the decades. It was unfortunate that Founding Patron Roger Jeffcoate CBE DL was unable to attend.
The Reception end allowed attendees the opportunity to see the start of buildings in Perth being illuminated to mark International ME Awareness Day.
