A new tribute bench in collaboration with Mikeysline has been unveiled in Inverness, giving passersby the chance to rest physically and mentally.

Positioned in the Victorian Market, Adam’s Bench is a tribute to Caithness man, Adam Higgins, a talented pool player living in the Highland Capital, who lost his life last summer.

Mikeysline community volunteer, Bobby Sahota, came up with the idea in remembrance of his friend whom he met as part of the Gavin Phillips Highland Pool Tour. He hopes those passing by will take comfort from it.

Bob said “Adam was just so nice and welcoming when I first moved to the area – he lived and breathed pool and was so well liked, so well loved. No-one teaches you how you’re supposed to process grief, so I immediately wanted to do something to symbolise him and have somewhere where all the people who knew him can come and connect with him. I thought if I can get input from some of those closest to him and make it meaningful for everyone it would mean that little bit more.”

“It’s a place for people to take a moment and just be. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Iain at Chainsaw Creations for making such a beautiful bench, Dale Royle and Tony of Tarradale Home Improvements for collecting and assembling the bench. To Cameron Macfarlane of The Victorian Market for providing the perfect space to place the bench, and to Mikeysline for being part of this collaboration.”

The intricate design boasts symbols reflective of Adam’s life, loves and family, adorned with daisies, otters, billiard balls and a bee in support of Mikeysline.

Bob’s employer, London-based strategy firm Highgate, have also chosen Mikeysline as their nominated charity this year, bringing a boost to the fundraising needed to provide their lifeline services throughout the Highlands, Islands and Moray.

Mikeysline CEO, Emily Stokes, said: “Adam’s bench is a wonderful legacy to a man who was clearly cherished by so many, and we are incredibly grateful to our volunteer, Bob, for including Mikeysline in this meaningful gift to the community. We hope it will encourage residents and visitors to use it as a place to stop and reflect should they need to.

“We’d also like to say a huge thank you to Highgate for choosing to support Mikeysline throughout 2025. As a grassroots charity, fundraising is vital to our local provision and this generosity will ensure we can reach even more of those in emotional distress and/or experiencing thoughts of suicide.”

Mikeysline provides support for anyone suffering mental health difficulties or suicidal thoughts via its text service on 07786 20 77 55 from Sunday to Thursday, 6-10pm and Friday-Saturday 7pm-7am, and can also be contacted via Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Webchat, as well as in person at their Hives across the regions.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pictured: Bob Sahota pictured with Adam’s Bench in the Victorian Market

Mikeysline operates 365 days a year, accessible through their text line at 07786207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000, messenger and via its website and live chat. They offer face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at their Inverness headquarters, and in their Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin hubs. Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App:

Android:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818