Tributes paid as Perth businessman and founder of Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance dies suddenly

John Bullough, 54, also played a vital role in the campaign to bring the Stone of Destiny back to the fair city

Author: Paul ReillyPublished 9th May 2023
Last updated 9th May 2023

Tributes are pouring in for John Bullough - Perth businessman and one of the founders of Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) - who has died suddenly.

The former McEwens of Perth boss passed away while in London on Thursday aged 54.

He was best known for founding SCAA 10 years ago.

The charity has issued a statement on its Twitter page.

The air ambulance charity's vice chairman Mike Beale said: "John will be sadly missed by everyone at SCAA and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

"His brand of enthusiasm for fundraising was to be admired.

"Over the 10-year history of SCAA he saw over £50m raised, crews responding to nearly 5,000 call outs and thousands of lives saved or impacted upon."

Tributes pour in from far and wide

MP for Perth and North Perthshire, Pete Wishart, has said "So desperately sad to hear of the sudden death of John Bullough.

"He got so much done in Perth through his unending energy and enthusiasm.

"He was also just a thoroughly nice guy. My thoughts with Georgina and the family".

Local businesses, including McCash's Store, have also been remembering Mr Bullough.

It said on Twitter "Very sad for your organisation and the city of Perth.

"Thinking of his wife and son at this heartbreaking time".

CEO of Air Ambulances UK, Simmy Akhtar, has said "So sorry to hear this.

John was hugely passionate about air ambulance, innovation, and patient care.

Deepest condolences to John's family, friends and colleagues from all of us at Air Ambulances UK."

Mr Bullough played a key role in the successful bid to bring the Stone of Destiny to Perth.

The historic artefact will be on display at a major new museum in the refurbished Perth City Hall next year.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.