Judith Ralston Drives Meaty Campaign to Raise Funds for Scotland’s Hospices

Top TV weather presenter Judith Ralston joined sun seekers in Glasgow recently to kick start a summer of barbecuing in support of Scotland’s Hospices Together.   Judith joined employees and patients at The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice on Carlton Place to launch the start of The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle, an initiative created by Scotland’s Hospices Together, which hopes to fuel a burst of BBQ activity during June to raise vital funds for hospices around the country.   The Scotland-wide campaign, supported by Scotch Beef PGI, will encourage Scots to get flame grilling steaks and burgers in aid of their local community’s care-providers - whatever the forecast.    Judith Ralston, the popular presenter who regularly proffers weather predictions on prime-time Scottish TV, said: “In Scotland, we often let the weather forecast make or break our weekend plans but this summer we want to ensure a dreich downpour won’t dampen our spirits.    “I can’t think of a better way to spend the weekend than catching up with friends and family while raising cash for such a worthwhile cause, so the secret to a safe and seamless barbeque is to always be prepared.    “Whether it’s in a friend’s back garden or down at the local park, pack an umbrella along with some sun cream and there will be nothing to stop the fun!”   Scotland’s Hospices Together is a national partnership of nine of Scotland’s independent hospices and the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS). The partnership aims to support and highlight the work of hospice care in Scotland.   The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice, just one of the care-providers encouraging locals to get involved in The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle campaign, delivers free person-centred and family-focused palliative care and support to 1,200 new patients and families every year in Glasgow, East Renfrewshire and South Lanarkshire.   Heather Manson, Director of Fundraising at The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to have Judith Ralston visit us, along with Jim Kerr, the manager of the Western Club Restaurant in Glasgow, who is showing us how to cook to perfection. We hope all our supporters will be inspired to organise their own barbecue and raise money for the hospice. It’s a fantastic way to get everyone involved this summer.   “The hospice is delighted to be part of the Big Scotch Beef Sizzle, working together with other hospices in Scotland we can highlight the wonderful work we all do and the wonderful care we provide.”   Carol McLaren, Head of Communications at Quality Meat Scotland, said: “The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle is a great opportunity for people to hone their culinary skills in a fun setting while supporting organisations which are at the heart of our communities.    “To get you into the summer spirit, come rain or shine, we’ve compiled a selection of first rate Scotch Beef PGI recipes at www.scotchkitchen.co.uk, so get your steaks and burgers on the barby for a sociable way to support a great cause.”    For more information on how to get involved with The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle and to download your starter pack visit: http://www.scotlandshospices.org/events/scotch-beef-sizzle.aspx   Recipes and information about Scotch Beef PGI, can be found at www.scotchkitchen.co.uk or follow @ScotchKitchen on Facebook or Twitter.