The Scottish baking community gathered in style at Glasgow’s Radisson Blu Hotel this October for the annual Scottish Bakers Presidential Dance – an evening that mixed celebration, camaraderie, and compassion. The event, one of the highlights of the Scottish Bakers’ calendar, raised an impressive £7,395 in support of the MS Society, the UK charity funding vital research and support for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
More than 170 members of Scotland’s baking industry attended the glittering event, which combined fine dining and entertainment with the chance to give back. The funds raised will help the MS Society continue its mission to improve the lives of more than 17,000 people in Scotland living with MS — a condition that affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, influencing movement, thought, and emotion.
The success of this year’s dance was made possible through the generous support of sponsors BAKO Group and Direct Energy, as well as auction donations from Laings Jewellers, Macphie, Bissett Printers, Sure Recruitment, and Cameron House. The charity auction, which has become a much-anticipated feature of the evening, saw lively bidding for prizes ranging from luxury stays to bespoke jewellery, with guests keen to support such a meaningful cause.
Lesley Cameron, CEO of Scottish Bakers, expressed her delight at the outcome:
“We are absolutely thrilled by the generosity shown by our members, sponsors, and guests. To raise such an incredible total is a real testament to the sense of community and kindness that defines our industry. Supporting the MS Society is a privilege, and knowing these funds will make a genuine difference to the lives of others makes this achievement even more special.”
Her words were echoed by Jo Anderson, Director for Scotland at the MS Society, who extended her gratitude to the Scottish Bakers’ community:
“We’re extremely grateful to Scottish Bakers, their members, supporters, and guests for this very generous donation. And we’d like to say a special thank you to Michelle Philips from Mimi’s Bakehouse in Edinburgh for nominating the MS Society to benefit from this year’s Presidential Dance.
“More than 17,000 people in Scotland live with MS. It’s a condition that affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, impacting how people move, think and feel. Donations such as this one help us provide vital support for our community today, and fund life-changing research and campaigns for a better future for everyone affected by MS.”
The Presidential Dance has long been a key date in the Scottish Bakers’ social diary — a night that not only honours the achievements of the industry but also demonstrates the sector’s collective goodwill. It’s a fitting reflection of an industry built on collaboration, craftsmanship, and care.
Scottish Bakers itself has a proud history dating back to 1891. As the national trade body representing Scotland’s bakery industry, it supports members with expert advice on business challenges, market trends, and regulatory developments while promoting innovation and excellence. The organisation continues to champion its members, from traditional family bakeries to modern artisan producers, as they navigate an evolving food landscape.
The MS Society, meanwhile, remains one of the UK’s most prominent charities dedicated to improving the lives of people living with Multiple Sclerosis. Through research, advocacy, and support services, it works tirelessly to bring hope to those affected by this often-debilitating condition.
This year’s Presidential Dance not only underscored the unity of Scotland’s baking industry but also highlighted how collective action can bring about real change. In a world where good causes rely heavily on the goodwill of communities, Scottish Bakers have once again proved that their passion extends far beyond the oven.
For more information about Scottish Bakers visit scottishbakers.org. To learn more about MS Society and the life-changing work they do, visit mssociety.org.uk.