Erskine, Scotland’s leading Veterans charity, has appointed distinguished opera performer and broadcaster Jamie MacDougall as an Ambassador.
A lifelong admirer of Sir Harry Lauder—the celebrated Scottish entertainer who raised £1 million for returning servicemen after the First World War—he brings a passion of military history to the role.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, MacDougall crowdfunded a film on Lauder, staged at the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh, to mark the 150th anniversary of the entertainer’s birth. This year, he will honour Lauder’s 155th birthday with two performances at Portobello Town Hall and another at London’s Hoxton Music Hall, raising funds for Erskine. Lauder’s legacy continues through royalties from his iconic songs, which still provide vital financial support to the charity.
From Glasgow, Jamie has performed across the globe, from the Sydney Opera House to Covent Garden, and has maintained a long association with Scottish Opera. Since 2001, he has been a central figure in classical music broadcasting as ‘Scotland’s Voice’ on BBC Radio Scotland.
His extensive career spans more than 45 recordings, encompassing opera and folk song, including the critically acclaimed collection of Haydn Folksong arrangements and his 2020 release Celtic Voice, which commemorated Beethoven’s 250th anniversary.
Reflecting on his new role, he said: “My father served in the Royal Artillery during his National Service, and he often reminisced about that time with great fondness. I also grew up in the Boys’ Brigade in Glasgow, where I developed a deep appreciation for its historic ties to the Armed Forces. Becoming an Ambassador for Erskine is a true honour, and I hope to contribute meaningfully to the incredible work being done to support our Veterans.”
Erskine’s Chief Executive, Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jamie as an Ambassador. His dedication to preserve the legacy of Sir Harry Lauder resonate deeply with Erskine. Lauder, despite suffering the personal loss of his son in the war, remained a committed supporter of Erskine, donating music royalties to assist our Veterans. Jamie’s continuation of this tradition is both inspiring and profoundly appreciated.”
Erskine remains at the forefront of Veterans’ care in Scotland, providing an extensive range of services, including purpose-built care homes, Transitional Supported Accommodation Apartments, family cottages, Assisted Living Apartments, and Activity Centres in Bishopton and Morayshire. Additionally, its Support at Home initiative ensures that Veterans across Scotland receive essential assistance tailored to their needs.