Simon Howie’s challenge to raise funds for SAMH
PERTHSHIRE butchery brand Simon Howie has given Burns Night a hairy twist this January as it has challenged people of the UK to grow a set of sideburns in time for Burns in an effort to show support for SAMH.
In a nod to Rabbie Burns’ most iconic feature – his sideburns – ‘Sideburns Night’ is a campaign focused on raising funds for the mental health charity SAMH by encouraging participants to grow, or don a novelty set, of sideburns in the run up to Burns Night and donate £5 to SAMH through a JustGiving page.
Those taking part in the initiative can also share the link or QR code with their family and friends for further donations and encourage them to take part.
To get involved, all you need to grow is grow, or find, a set of sideburns throughout January, share your pics and spread the word to get sponsored by friends and family.
The campaign is also backed by a host of well-kent Scottish faces including Zander Murray, Andy the Highlander, Ian G Black and Craig Ferguson to name a few, who will help to spread the message across the month.
Simon Howie, owner of Simon Howie Foods, said: “Burns Night is one of our favourite times of the year, but January isn’t like that for everyone. We hope people see the fun in Sideburns Night and that it can potentially grow into a successful annual fundraiser for SAMH.”
Hazel McIlwraith, director of fundraising and major appeal at SAMH, said: “Sideburns Night is a fun and light-hearted way of getting across a very serious message. Mental health problems can impact us all year round, however, some of us may face a slump as we return to our routines after a period of celebration.
“We’re encouraging everyone to grow (or stick on!) your sideburns and kickstart 2026 with this fun challenge for Scotland’s mental health.”
