Scotch whisky auctioned to help Japan victims

The special malt whisky was distilled in 1940

A bottle of Scotch whisky being auctioned to raise money for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan has raised £15,000.

The 70-year-old malt was gifted by Elgin-based whisky specialists Gordon & MacPhail.

The Generations Glenlivet was auctioned at Bonhams in Edinburgh, bringing a price equivalent to about £600 a dram.

The buyer, who wishes to remain anonymous, was said to want to donate the whisky to the people of Japan.

Proceeds will be donated to the British Red Cross Japan Appeal.

The idea to auction the whisky, which was distilled in 1940, came from Gordon & MacPhail's joint managing director Michael Urquhart.

He had been due to fly to Japan to launch the whisky when the tragedy struck.

The death toll from the quake and tsunami on 11 March has now passed 10,000, and more than 17,000 people are missing.

Mr Urquhart said: "Gordon & MacPhail has had trading relationships with Japan for over 30 years and members of our family-owned business felt it was important to show our support and raise funds to aid the relief.

"I think we all feel helpless in the face of a tragedy like this so it is good to be able to do something practical."

Norman McKinley, director of the Red Cross in Scotland, said: "The massive earthquake and resulting tsunami that struck Japan have caused widespread destitution and suffering.

"The costs of the relief effort and of rebuilding the homes and lives of those affected will be immense.

"Donations to the British Red Cross will be used towards helping the Japanese people recover from this devastating natural disaster over the coming months and years."

Bonhams gave their services for free.