15/05/2026
π£ Pioneering Moray scientist to be celebrated
A celebration honouring one of Morayβs most remarkable scientific pioneers will take place in Keith on Monday 18 May 2026, marking the life and legacy of Isabella Gordon.
Schools, international guests and local organisations will come together for a day of music, science, heritage and cultural exchange, recognising the achievements of the Keith-born marine biologist whose work helped shape global understanding of sea life.
Organised jointly by Keith Primary School, Keith Grammar School, the Banffshire Lieutenancy and the Electric Voice Theatre, the event will take place across Keith. The activities will be centred at Keith Primary School, Newmill Primary School and Scotscraig Gardens. The day marks the culmination of Isabellaβs Footsteps, a year-long science and music project involving pupils from both schools and the areaβs involvement in the national Sakura Cherry Tree Project.
Isabella Gordon OBE FZS FLS (1901-1988) was a leading expert in crabs and related marine species. She built an international reputation at the Natural History Museum, becoming its first female permanent scientific staff member and developed lasting links with Japan during her career.
The day will feature pupil performances inspired by her life and work, the launch of a new childrenβs book about Gordon and the unveiling of commemorative plaques at three locations in Keith.
The unveiling of plaques and the blessing of cherry trees - gifted by the Japan-British Society and Japan Matsuri - will symbolise the enduring cultural and scientific connections between Scotland and Japan. They will provide a lasting legacy for future generations of friendship between the people of the two nations.
Proceedings will begin at 10.30am at Keith Primary School, led by Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire. The programme will include speeches from invited guests and contributors including Mr Katsutoshi Takeda, Consul General of Japan, followed by a piped procession to Scotscraig Gardens for the final ceremonies. Members of Isabellaβs family will be travelling to Keith to take part in the day and learn more about their famous ancestor.
10.30am - Keith Primary School - songs, speeches and launch of story book for children
Cherry Tree ceremonies and plaque unveilings
11.30am - Keith Primary School Grounds
12pm - Scotscraig Gardens
2pm - St Thomas' Primary School Grounds