One of the nation’s best-known and respected antique-lovers has arranged an arty donation to help the National Trust for Scotland conservation charity raise funds to benefit one of its most iconic properties.

Eric Knowles, from the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow and Moorcroft director, was instrumental in arranging the donation of the beautiful Mackintosh-inspired vase by one of Moorcroft Pottery’s leading designers, Nicola Slaney. The vase is the prize in a raffle to raise funds for The Hill House in Helensburgh - the iconic property that was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Mr Knowles is a long-time supporter of The Hill House and describes it as being, “without a doubt the jewel in the crown of The National Trust for Scotland”.

The draw for the White Ladies vase takes place in December this year, so a lucky art-lover could see in the New Year in 2009 with the contemporary collector’s piece. The vase is worth in excess of £2000 and references Mackintosh’s famous Glasgow rose and art-nouveau female figures.

Mr Knowles said:

“I was very impressed with The White Ladies design, which instantly reminded me of Mackintosh’s ‘kimono’ cabinet in which these shrouded ladies appear. Designer Nicola Slaney has created a most fitting interpretation, in my opinion.”

Karen Fenwick, from the National Trust for Scotland’s The Hill House said:

“We are very fortunate to have such a strong supporter in the form of Mr Knowles. We really welcome his generous donation which will help us to raise extra income, so we can continue to ensure The Hill House and its valuable collections receive the top-quality care they deserve.”

Mr Knowles will visit The Hill House on 2 September to open “Moorcroft’s New Dawn: 111 years of Design Evolution”. This invitation only evening is the start of an exciting exhibition by the Moorcroft Collectors’ Club, which is open to the public from 3 September until 31 October and will cover pieces from 1897 to the present day.

The White Ladies Vase will be on show at The Hill House until 31st October. Raffle tickets cost £1 each and are exclusively available through The Hill House. Please visit or phone on 0844 493 2208.