ABOUT
THE TRUST
The Knockando Woolmill Trust
Charity registered in Scotland, charity number SCO30167.
The Knockando Woolmill Trust exists to preserve, protect and share the living heritage of one of Scotland’s oldest working textile mills, with an unbroken weaving tradition dating back to 1784.
By the late 1990s, it became clear that Knockando Woolmill – with its remarkable collection of Victorian Dobcross looms and original buildings – was not only of national, but international significance. As the only working woolmill in Europe to feature such machinery on its original site, Knockando had endured thanks to its rural Speyside setting and the care of generations of dedicated weavers. But its future was far from secure.
A report by conservation architect Andrew P K Wright catalysed a campaign to save the Mill. Its story captured hearts across the country when featured in the BBC programme Restoration, winning the public vote in Scotland and sparking a powerful grassroots movement. Over £3 million was raised through grants, donations and local support. After a decade of meticulous planning and restoration, the Mill was officially reopened by the then HRH The Duke of Rothesay, now King Charles III, in 2012.
The Trust continues to safeguard and steward the site – not as a museum, but as a working mill and visitor destination, where the clatter of machinery and the scent of lanolin still fill the air. Every item produced – from luxurious wool throws to timeless tweed – reflects a deep respect for Scotland’s textile traditions, while embracing the creativity and craftsmanship of contemporary design.
A cornerstone of the Trust’s mission is to pass on these skills to the next generation. With support from the William Grant Foundation, two weavers are currently training to operate both the original Victorian looms and modern Dornier machines, ensuring this living heritage continues to thrive.
With ongoing backing from Historic Environment Scotland, individual donors and visitors from home and abroad, The Knockando Woolmill Trust is proud to protect a truly unique part of Scotland’s story – where tradition is not only preserved but woven into the future.
THE TRUSTEES
Nicola Irwin, Craigellachie
Chairman
Graeme Stewart, Edinburgh
Michael Barron, Findhorn
Derek Ross, Moray Council
Andrea Chappell, Forres
Antony McCord, Elgin
David Broadfoot, elgin
SUPPORT THE TRUST
One of the intentions of the Woolmill Trust when it was set up was to garner support from the community of Moray, engendering a sense of local participation in the survival of an important part of the industrial history of the North East of Scotland. The Trustees of the Woolmill would welcome enquiries from those within the Knockando Community and from further afield wishing to support the Woolmill by volunteering to work at the Woolmill from time to time (gardeners are always welcome), by donating financially to the work of the Trust or by otherwise supporting the Trust. Further information on these options can be found below.
Volunteer
Do you have time to volunteer at the Woolmill? We have opportunities for you to help in areas such as our community garden and tour guiding. If you have any skills you would like to share with us or just want to offer your time, please contact us on 01340 810345 or email office@kwc.co.uk.
Legacies
Knockando Woolmill Trust is a charity registered in Scotland number SC030167. The Trust receives support from Historic Environment Scotland, but is also dependent on income from visitors and donations to ensure the long-term future of this unique and fascinating site. If you enjoy visiting Knockando Woolmill, please consider leaving a gift in your Will. No matter how small or large, any gift will make a significant difference to the Woolmill. Your gift would be used to preserve the history of the Woolmill, ensuring the craft of the UK’s oldest surviving district woollen mill is preserved for generations to come. If you would like to discuss the best way your legacy can be used to help Knockando Woolmill, please email office@kwc.co.uk. To make a gift in your Will, please state that either a specific amount, or percentage of your estate, should be given to Knockando Woolmill Trust, Scottish charity no. SC030167, and sent to Knockando Woolmill Trust, The Woolmill, Knockando, Aberlour, AB38 7RP, UK. We would be extremely grateful for your support.
PRIVATE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
of
KNOCKANDO WOOLMILL TRUST
(Registered Number: SC364588)
(Scottish Charity Number: SC030167)
(the "Trust")
Notice is hereby given that the annual general meeting of the Trust will be held at The Visitor Centre, The Woolmill, Knockando AB38 7RP on Tuesday 6 May 2025 at 10.30am (the "Meeting") to consider the business below.
Business to be considered at the Meeting
1. The report by the Chairman on the activities of the Trust.
2. The election of Mr David Broadfoot of Elgin, Moray as a Trustee of the Trust.
3. The fixing of annual subscriptions of the Trust.
4. The report of the independent financial examiner of the Trust for the year ended 31 March 2024.
5. The approval of the annual accounts of the Trust for the year ended 31 March 2024.
6. The appointment of Mark Sanderson CA of MacKenzie Kerr Limited, Inverness as independent financial examiner of the Trust.
By order of the Board.
Michael J. Barron
Director
3 April 2025
Registered Office:
The Woolmills
Knockando
Aberlour
Moray
AB38 7RP
Note: A member entitled to attend and vote is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote instead of him or her. A proxy need not be a member of the Trust.
