A tranche of memorabilia from Elgin is being auctioned in aid of the children’s ward at the town’s Dr Gray’s Hospital.
The move comes as part of the regeneration of Elgin’s South Street, former Jailhouse Nightclub, Junners Toy Shop, and Newmarket Bar, which are being transformed into a mixed-use development of affordable homes, an enterprise hub, and retail units.
The former buildings held a number of treasures that are close to the hearts of many locals and were removed during the demolition works, and are now being offered for auction by Robertson Property Ltd, part of Robertson Group, with all proceeds going to the children’s ward.
Hosted online by Rotary Elgin, lots include the infamous replica electric chair from the Jailhouse Nightclub, complete with a headless dummy. Familiar to a generation of club-goers, it has survived countless nightly jolts and years exposed to the elements.
Other nostalgic items include toy shop and bar signage alongside vintage Apple iMacs and whisky cask heads, offering collectors and locals the chance to own a piece of Elgin heritage while supporting a great cause.
The South Street regeneration project is part of the Elgin city centre masterplan and is a partnership between Robertson Property Ltd, Moray Council, Moray Growth Deal and UHI Moray.
Sir Bill Robertson, chairman of Robertson Group, said, “Robertson Group has been part of the fabric of Elgin for almost 60 years, supporting local employment and local community groups, and for over three decades, we have been fortunate to have held a strong relationship with Dr Gray’s Hospital. The hospital is such a vital local facility, that it is fitting that these items from Elgin’s past help support its future. We are grateful to Rotary Elgin for their support in facilitating this auction and we hope that the community digs deep to support our local children’s ward.
“Working in partnership with Moray Council, UHI Moray and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, we continue to make strong progress on the South Street regeneration project, which helps realise the Elgin City Centre Masterplan and address the needs of the local community.”
Karen Merrin, senior charge nurse at Dr Gray’s Hospital, added, “We are very grateful and excited to be receiving the monies raised from the auction, especially when it comes from such a big part of Elgin’s history. It feels right that we make sure it is invested back into the community – investing in the families of Moray.
“We are passionate about creating a setting on the Children’s Ward that is comfortable for all the families that we see and plan to use the money raised to continue making improvements to the Ward.
“We are keen to extend these improvements into Outpatients, utilising the foyer area in front of the lifts. We hope to create additional seating in this space along with a quiet protected area for children that become upset during appointments and need some space and time out from the clinical hospital environment.”
The full catalogue of items and auction details are now live and available here. The auction will run until Tuesday 11th November and all items must be arranged for collection by the buyer.
