Home   News   Article

Inverness Castle Experience offers Highland primary and Gaelic medium pupils the chance to name Flora MacDonald statue’s faithful pup





Flora's Pup - Inverness Castle Experience Sketch
Flora's Pup - Inverness Castle Experience Sketch

It is the most faithful of Border Collies, having stood gazing patiently upwards at its owner with one paw raised since the late 19th century.

The pup at the feet of the Flora MacDonald statue in the grounds of Inverness Castle will be familiar to many, but has never been named.

Now primary school and Gaelic medium pupils from all across the Highlands will have the chance to do exactly that in a competition organised by the Inverness Castle Experience.

Flora and her loyal dog were cast in bronze by the sculptor Andrew Davidson between 1896 and 1899.

Flora MacDonald Statue outside Inverness Castle. Picture: Alison White.
Flora MacDonald Statue outside Inverness Castle. Picture: Alison White.

It is even claimed Davidson may have blundered in adding the pet given historical research claiming Flora – best known for her part in helping Bonnie Prince Charlie escape government troops after the 1746 Battle of Culloden – was allergic to dogs.

But with Flora earning a much-needed makeover in time for the £36 million revamping of the castle on the hill as a major visitor attraction, the unnamed pup is to be christened by whichever youngster convinces judges of the merits of their name.

It represents a unique opportunity for one lucky pupil to leave a lasting mark on the Castle’s story.

An Inverness Castle Experience spokeswoman said: “While there is no historical record of the dog’s name, we thought it was time to bring this special pup to life in a new lead role – as a friendly guide for younger visitors, helping them navigate their journey through the experience and its stories.

“But first, this castle companion needs a name!

“Young participants are also invited to share a short story, poem or picture explaining the inspiration behind their chosen name and a story about the pup's adventures in the Castle or having fun in the place they live.

Whether the name is a link to Highland history or something more contemporary, a connection to this region, or simply a name that sparks the imagination, we want to hear the creative tales behind their ideas.

“This is a chance to be part of the story and help shape the future of the Inverness Castle Experience!”

The initiative is part of the wider Inverness Castle project, a key development within the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal from a joint investment of up to £315 million from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and the University of the Highlands and Islands.

The deal aims to stimulate sustainable economic growth across the region.

Flora MacDonald. Picture: Gair Fraser.
Flora MacDonald. Picture: Gair Fraser.

Cllr Ian Brown, leader of Inverness City and Area and co-chairman of the Inverness Castle project delivery group, said: “We are so excited to invite all Highland primary school children, including Gaelic Medium pupils, to participate in this unique opportunity.

“This competition celebrates creativity and connection; we can’t wait to see the fantastic names and stories they come up with.”

Michael Golding, chairman of High Life Highland’s board of directors, added: “This lovable Border Collie will become the mascot of the Inverness Castle Experience, helping young visitors discover the magic of the Highlands engagingly and interactively.

“Giving the pup a name is the first step in bringing this special character to life!”

For more information and to enter the competition, click here.

The Inverness Castle Experience project, opening later this year, will benefit from £30m in investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and a range of other partners.


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More