Pupils at Kelvindale Primary School in Glasgow were left ‘buzzing’ after receiving a special visit today (Monday 3 October) from Bella Beatson; the official new mascot for Beatson Cancer Charity.

Twelve-year-old Emma Mcginley formerly of Kelvindale Primary School competed with children from across the UK to win the competition to design the first ever mascot for Beatson Cancer Charity. Emma won the competition with her bee design which was later brought to life and is now known as ‘Bella Beatson’.

Pupils throughout Glasgow from P4-P7 were encouraged to get their creative juices flowing and take part in Beatson Cancer Charity’s competition to create and name the charity’s first ever mascot. The competition received over 1,600 entries but it was a design by Emma that caught the eye of the judging panel, consisting of Beatson Cancer Charity staff, supporters and Ambassadors including The Right Honourable Lord Provost of Glasgow, Sadie Docherty.

Amy Dreszler, Schools Engagement Fundraiser at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: “We were thrilled with all of the entries. Each child put so much thought and effort into their designs and our panel had a tough time picking the overall winner, but it was Emma’s fantastic design that really stood out from the rest.

“It’s important to us at Beatson Cancer Charity to raise as much awareness as we can. Bella Beatson will help boost our profile and engage with local communities, this is our way of saying a huge thank you to our dedicated support base and for the generosity we receive.

“Bella Beatson will be embarking on a school visit programme so we encourage all schools to get in touch and book a visit.”

Caroline Darroch, Head at Kelvindale Primary School, said: “It is fantastic news – we are really proud of Emma winning the mascot competition and all of the children loved welcoming Bella to our school. It was a pleasure to see happy smiles all round. We’re happy to be supporting the Beatson Cancer Charity as it goes the extra mile for people who are suffering from cancer.”

Bella Beatson will help to raise awareness of the work of the charity and also raise awareness of the effects of cancer.

Any school which would like a visit from Bella can contact Beatson Cancer Charity on 0141 212 0505 or e-mail [email protected]

Thanks to the design students at New College Lanarkshire for their help with creating Bella.