I'm the face of one of the world's biggest events – but no one has a clue what I look like

Scottish Sun

23-06-2025

VOLUNTEER Dylan Henderson will essentially be the face of the Tall Ships Race when it sails into Scotland in July.
But the tens of thousands of people he meets in Aberdeen over the hectic weekend will have zero clue what he looks like.
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Dorry the Dolphin will be delighting the crowds at the Tall Ships Race in Aberdeen
Credit: Newsline Media
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Dorry the Dolphin dishing out high fives to fans
Credit: Newsline Media
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Volunteer Dylan Henderson is the man behind the mascot
Credit: Newsline Media
That's because he's the man behind beloved high-fiving mascot Dorry the Dolphin.
And he'll be putting smiles on faces for adults and kids alike at Europe's biggest free family event.
Dylan, 22, said: 'It's a great opportunity and I knew I had to be involved. It's not something that comes to the city every year.
'I just love being a mascot and I've already visited some schools.
"I'm very excited and I can't wait to meet more people who are just as excited as me.'
A fleet of 50 eyecatching tall ships will float into Aberdeen's harbour on July 18.
Around 400,000 visitors are expected to head to the city, generating at least £20 million for the local economy.
A carnival atmosphere will take over as the streets and quayside are transformed into fun zones packed with activities.
It's the first time the race has stopped in the Granite City since 1997, and some fans have been waiting a long time for it to return.
Organisers put out a call for volunteers to help make sure everything runs smoothly.
Dylan, from Westhill, Aberdeenshire, jumped at the chance.
He hopes there are not record temperatures that weekend because it can get hot and sweaty in his heavy suit.
But he reckons he'll cope because he's a mascot veteran, and has already dressed up as Chase from Paw Patrol in the past.
Dylan said: 'It does get warm but I'm getting used to it.
'I'm never tired because it's so much fun. Not everyone likes putting on these suits as they can be claustrophobic.
'But I love being a mascot and it's great fun. I can't wait to welcome and talk to everyone. I'll be giving out loads of high fives and cuddles.'
Tall Ships Aberdeen Project manager Emma Wadee said: 'It's been 28 years since the Tall Ships last sailed into our city and the amazing memories from that event still spark so much joy.
'Hosting the Tall Ships once more is absolutely a dream come true for our city. And what's even more special is seeing that same dream unfold for so many individuals involved, right across our community."
The Tall Ship events run from July 18 to July 22 in Aberdeen.