Mintlaw & District Men's Shed
Princess Royal visit to Aden Country Park
The Princess Royal Visit to Aden Country Park
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Aden Country Park in Mintlaw on Tuesday, April 8 2025, as part of a wider tour of Aberdeenshire. Greeted by Provost Judy Whyte, Council Leader Gillian Owen, and local representatives, The Princess Royal toured the newly redeveloped park and its improved attractions.
A key highlight of the visit was her meeting with Gordon Reid, Chairman of Mintlaw & District Men’s Shed along with fellow member Tony Sladdin and S4 pupils from Mintlaw Academy. Together, they showcased a collaborative project where young people are learning traditional woodworking skills alongside experienced volunteers, demonstrating intergenerational learning and the preservation of practical heritage crafts.
Her Royal Highness also engaged with several community organisations, including the Buchan Development Partnership, Deer Community Council, and the Aden Allotments Society. Each group shared insights into their vital contributions to local wellbeing, sustainability, and community life.
During her tour, The Princess Royal planted a commemorative tree, explored the Bill Cruickshank Visitor Centre, viewed vintage farming exhibits, and enjoyed Doric language performances. She also visited the Sands memorial garden and met families involved in creating accessible park facilities.
Provost Whyte called the visit an honour and praised the area’s strong community spirit. Council Leader Owen commended the dedication of staff, volunteers, and funders in transforming the park into a vibrant, inclusive destination.
Mintlaw & District Men's Shed Stand
Her Royal Highness met with Gordon Reid, Chairman of the Mintlaw & District Men's Shed, along with fellow member Tony Sladdin of the Shed and S4 pupils from Mintlaw Academy who are learning traditional woodworking skills.
Royal Burgundy Tree
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal ceremoniously planted a Prunus ‘Royal Burgundy’ tree at Aden Country Park to commemorate her visit. Following the planting, Her Royal Highness met with local representatives of Sands, the charity dedicated to supporting those affected by pregnancy and baby loss, within the serene setting of their memorial garden.
Local Doric historian Gordon Hay MBE & Princess Royal
Local historian Gordon Hay MBE delivered an overview of the Doric language, including his own Bible translation, before introducing performances by Peter Chapman, who presented the bothy ballad The Buchan Plooman, and Gavin Grant, the current under-9 Doric Poetry Champion.
