Clare Nancy Russell facts for kids

Clare Nancy Russell, also known as Lady Ballindalloch, was born on August 4, 1944. She is a Scottish landowner who owns and manages Ballindalloch Castle and its large estate. From 2002 to 2019, she held an important role as the Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire. This is a special representative of the King or Queen in a county.

Early Life and Family

Clare Russell is the only daughter of Major Sir Ewan George Macpherson-Grant. He was the 6th and last Baronet of Ballindalloch. Her mother was Evelyn Nancy Stopford Dickin.

In 1967, Clare married Oliver Henry Russell. They have three children together. Their eldest son, Guy Ewan, later took on the surname Macpherson Grant of Ballindalloch.

Managing Ballindalloch Estate

When her father passed away in 1983, Clare Russell inherited Ballindalloch Castle and its surrounding land. This made her the Lady Laird, or owner, of the historic estate. She is responsible for its care and management.

Community Involvement

Clare Russell has been very active in her community. Since 1986, she has been the Chair of Queen Mary's Clothing Guild (Scotland). This group helps provide clothing to those in need.

She also served on the main board of the Children's Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) for six years. CHAS helps children with life-shortening conditions and their families. She has also worked with the Moray Health Council, the National Trust for Scotland, and the Scotland Garden Scheme. These groups focus on health, preserving important places, and promoting gardens.

Role as Lord Lieutenant

In 1991, Clare Russell became a Deputy Lieutenant for Banffshire. This was a step towards her future role. She then became Vice Lord Lieutenant in 1998.

First Lady Lord Lieutenant

In 2002, she became the Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire. This was a significant moment because she was the first woman to hold this position in Banffshire. The Lord Lieutenant is the King's or Queen's personal representative in a county. They support the Royal Family and promote good citizenship.

As Lord Lieutenant, Clare Russell was a strong supporter of Banffshire. Even though the administrative area of the county changed in 1975, she worked to keep its history alive. In 2008, she led a successful effort to put up road signs marking the historic county's boundaries again.

Published Works

Clare Russell has also shared her love for food through writing. Under her maiden name, Clare Macpherson-Grant Russell, she published two cookery books. These books are titled "I Love Food" and "I Love Food 2".

Royal Recognition

In 2017, Clare Russell received a special honour. She was appointed a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO). This award was given to her in the 2017 Birthday Honours list. It recognized her excellent service as a Lord Lieutenant.