HRH Camilla, The Duchess of Rothesay, officially opens #TeamHamish Splash Pad in Nairn

Friday 10 September saw the official opening event of the #TeamHamish Splash Pad located at The Links, Nairn.

Those in attendance were able to spectate as royal guest HRH Camilla, The Duchess of Rothesay, made an appearance in Nairn to officially open the water attraction, unveil a commemorative plaque and chat to local residents and school children who attended.

In addition, Sam Hey, along with his daughter Lily, both received The British Empire Medal on behalf of The Queen presented by Nairnshire Lord Lieutenant, George Asher.

The Nairnshire community was well represented with many attending in support.

Facility contractors officially handed over the site to Highland Council in September last year – the Council has responsibility for managing the site on behalf of Nairn Common Good.

Nairn’s splash pad was a partnership project between Team Hamish, Nairn Common Good and NICE.  It replaced the former paddling pool on the Nairn Links and created a water play feature which is available longer throughout the year and provide a more accessible facility for all.  The first of its kind in Highland it is an exciting new development for Nairn.

Nairn couple Sam and Susan Hey lost their son Hamish to a DIPG, a rare and very aggressive form of childhood cancer, on 20 February 2017.

They wanted to create a lasting legacy to their son, so they set up the charity, #TeamHamish, to raise funds for a new splash pad at Nairn beach.

Tragically, Susan lost her own battle with cancer during May 2020 and sadly was not able to see the completion of the project or its official opening.

Cllr Tom Heggie, Chair of the Nairn and Nairnshire committee said:  “I am delighted that circumstances have now allowed the Nairn Splash Pad to proceed with its official opening event.  I was also thrilled to be able to attend the opening ceremony in person on Friday and share in the excitement of the many residents and school children who also joined us.

He concluded by saying:  “The Nairn Common Good Fund and the Council are extremely pleased to have been able to support this together with our community partners.”

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