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Members of the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) Council, along with family, friends and invited guests, gathered in Stirling Castle to celebrate the handover of the IHE presidency from one Scotland-based member to another.

The guests were formally welcomed into the castle – the historic residence of Scottish royalty over the centuries – by a traditional piper. They were then treated to a tour of the royal bed chambers, including the room where Mary Queen of Scots slept, before sitting down to enjoy a three-course meal in the magnificent medieval banqueting hall.

This event allowed the Institute to express its gratitude to outgoing President Martin Polland for his dedication, hard work and inspiring leadership during his term. It also served as a celebration of the IHE’s accomplishments over the past two years under his stewardship.

The evening marked the commencement of Katharine Kelly’s term as the new IHE President – only the second woman to ever take on the role. Mr Polland formally presented her with the chain of office, while he received a Past President’s badge in recognition of his service.

During his moving address to the 200-strong assembled guests, Mr Polland paid thanks to those who had supported him throughout his career. He expressed his gratitude to the members of the IHE Council and the wider IHE family for their unwavering support. He also wished Ms Kelly well and thanked her for her steadfast support as his Vice President.

Assuming the role of President until 2026, Ms Kelly expressed her heartfelt thanks to Mr Polland, noting that she had a hard act to follow. She also extended her gratitude to her employer, Arcadis, for allowing her the time and support necessary to take on the presidential role.

In a surprise announcement, IHE chief executive Steve Spender awarded two Honorary Fellowships to deserving members of the institute.

The first was given to Richard Hayes CEng FIHE, a past President and former CEO of the IHE. The second was awarded to Paul Boss, CEO of the Road Surface Treatment Association. Both recipients were honoured for their hard work and dedication to the Institute over many years.

The nominated charity for the event was the Strathcarron Hospice. Together with Gift Aid support, and the generous commitment by the IHE Council to match-fund any donations from the dinner guests, a total of £2,242 was raised for this excellent cause.

An IHE spokesperson told Highways that it would like to express its gratitude to all those who donated throughout the evening.

Following an excellent meal, there was entertainment with many dancing the night away into the early hours in a traditional Scottish Ceilidh. There was also a sideshow, as David Denner of the Welsh Government attempted to create the world’s largest tower of Tunnock’s caramel wafers and teacakes.

Sadly, no one from the Guinness Book of Records was on hand to authenticate his fine effort before it collapsed around him.

A spokesperson extended the Institute’s gratitude to all the sponsors who supported the event: Arcadis, Clearview Intelligence, Amey, Bear Scotland, and WJ. Without their support, the event would not have been possible.

Photos from the evening are now available to view in the slideshow below.

View the photo gallery