A Fife-based holiday lodge for people affected by Motor Neurone Disease has been given the royal seal of approval.
The Princess Royal, who is royal patron of MND Scotland, has officially opened Clayton Lodge at Balmullo near St Andrews.
The new premises were specially designed with MND in mind and have been fully booked since they began welcoming guests in April.
The charity aims to give families affected by MND, and other disabilities, a chance to take a break from their normal routine and to enjoy a holiday together. The lodge at Clayton caravan park boasts an array of adaptations tailored to the needs of people with the condition.
Addressing guests, many of whom are directly affected by MND, the princess said: “I think it’s a pleasure to be asked to come today to see what you’ve achieved here.
“It is already open, I’ve had a report on its success and its popularity, so that’s even better.”
The princess said the charity’s other adapted chalet, near Oban, had also been popular among families seeing a break.
“Respite, wherever it is, would be welcome, but when it’s really well set up, as it is here, a lot more can be gained from that experience,” she said.
MND Scotland chief executive Craig Stockton added: “Motor Neurone Disease is a rapidly progressing and muscle-wasting terminal illness and, as a result, people with MND can lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, drink, and eventually breathe unaided.
“The pressures on those living with MND, and their family carers, can often be extreme.
“That’s why we have expanded our accessible holiday service, with this brand new facility, to enable families to take some time out from their normal routines, to take a much-needed break and to create some lasting memories together.”
Clayton caravan park managing director Andrew Kennedy, said his team had worked closely with MND Scotland over the last 18 months to design the lodge.
Anyone interested in booking can do so via www.mndscotland.org.uk/holidays.
