SYHA launches tartan design competition for youth hostels

DESIGNERS are being invited to create a new tartan that will become the signature of Scottish youth hostels.

CEO of SYHA Hostelling Scotland, Keith Legge launches the tartan design competition at the Tartan Weaving Mill in Edinburgh. Picture: PA

The Scottish Youth Hostels Association (SYHA), which runs about 60 hostels across the country, wants to use the new design to decorate furniture and fittings across its network.

The competition is open to anyone, with the only criteria that the design includes red for the SYHA and “reflects the natural landscape of Scotland”.

The winning design will be turned into curtains, cushion covers, table cloths, blankets and throws in youth hostels across the country.

SYHA chief executive Keith Legge said: “All of our youth hostels have a unique character but we would like to use a tartan to give a Scottish flavour to each interior.

“Scotland is well-known for its innovators and creative talents, and we feel that an SYHA tartan will add to the genuine, warm welcome which our guests receive.”

The competition is open until March 31 and a small exhibition of the top designs will be staged at Stirling Youth Hostel.

The winner will be awarded life membership of SYHA and a two-night stay for up to four people at any Scottish youth hostel.