{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "NewsArticle", "dateCreated": "2024-12-08T22:07:39+02:00", "datePublished": "2024-12-08T22:07:39+02:00", "dateModified": "2024-12-09T07:46:43+02:00", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22445/news/featured/featured-luxmi-tea-co-pvt-ltd-acquires-sorwathe-ltd", "headline": "FEATURED: Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd acquires Sorwathe Ltd", "description": "Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd, a global leader in the tea industry, has officially acquired Sorwathe Ltd, one of Rwanda's oldest tea companies. This...", "keywords": "", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22445/news/featured/featured-luxmi-tea-co-pvt-ltd-acquires-sorwathe-ltd" }, "thumbnailUrl": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/12/08/65920.jpg", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/12/08/65920.jpg" }, "articleBody": "Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd, a global leader in the tea industry, has officially acquired Sorwathe Ltd, one of Rwanda's oldest tea companies. This milestone was marked by a management handover ceremony at Sorwathe Ltd in Kinihira Sector, Rulindo District, Northern Province on December 5. According to company officials, the acquisition marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Sorwathe Ltd, promising new opportunities to strengthen and expand the legacy of excellence under the Chatterjee family leadership, who has over a century of experience in the global tea industry and that Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd brings a legacy of heritage, sustainability, and quality that perfectly aligns with Sorwathe’ s values. ALSO READ: Top six buyers of Rwanda's popular tea For 50 years, Sorwathe Ltd, under Wertheim’s family, has been a pioneer in Rwanda’s tea industry, cultivating the country's finest teas across 2,130 hectares in partnership with smallholder farmers. Dipankar Chatterjee, Chairman of Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd, delivered a heartfelt speech, sharing his family's century-long history in the tea industry. He said: “Luxmi will endeavour to take Sorwathe to new heights, praising the garden's potential and existing reputation for producing high-quality tea.” He emphasized that Luxmi Tea’s goal is to produce quality teas in Rwanda and across the world. He touched on the global demand for quality tea, noting that there is a global shortage of high-quality tea, emphasizing the opportunity that Sorwathe has to fill this gap. Rudra Chatterjee, Chairman of Silverback Tea Company and Managing Director of Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd and The Honorary Consul for Rwanda in Eastern India, expressed his commitment to maintaining Sorwathe's tradition of producing high-quality teas while exploring opportunities for innovation and market expansion. He noted: “It is a company that has been run very well by the previous management, the Wertheim family, and we will build on that good work. Building not only on the quality of tea but also on the community for which the work of Sorwathe Foundation has been exemplary. Our team led by Nzeki Samuel Munyao will ensure that Sorwathe extends the value it creates for stakeholders. We take the privilege and the responsibility seriously.” Andrew Wertheim, Chairman of Tea Importers Inc. and former Chairman of Sorwathe, reflected on the company’s journey since its founding in 1975 by his father, Joe Wertheim. “His vision was to improve the lives of people in surrounding communities through tea. Over the years, we have seen tremendous achievements in community development, infrastructure, and education. This legacy is worth celebrating as we transition into a new chapter. We are confident that under the leadership of Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd, given their experience both in India and in Rwanda, they'll be able to take Sorwathe to the next level and continue the success that has been made” His Excellency, The Indian High Commissioner to Rwanda, Mridu Pawan Das congratulated Rudra Chatterjee on taking over as the new leader of Sorwathé. The High Commissioner praised the Wertheim family's legacy, which spans over 50 years, and highlighted their contributions to the local community, including empowering 8,500 people. The High Commissioner also spoke about Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd's proud legacy, dating back to 1912, and its presence in Indian states, including Assam. He expressed his happiness to see Indian businesses contributing to the India-Rwanda relationship and empowering the people of Rwanda. He also appreciated the good relationship between India and the United States of America. The Charge De Affairs of the United States of America Embassy in Rwanda John Armiger delivered a heartfelt speech to celebrate nearly 50 years of excellence in Rwanda's tea industry, specifically honoring Sorwathe, a renowned tea estate. The ambassador praised the Wertheim family's visionary leadership, which has made Sorwathe Rwanda's largest single-producing tea factory. As Sorwathe transitions to new ownership under Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd of India. The speech expressed optimism for the future, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between US and Rwandan businesses to drive economic growth and shared prosperity. Emery Rubagenga, Chairman of Sorwathe Ltd, pointed out that the company was the first in Rwanda to introduce Orthodox, organic, and pesticide-free green tea, ensuring both customer satisfaction and environmental sustainability. On behalf of the Board, I express my deep gratitude to our employees, partners, and customers for their unwavering support and dedication. As we embark on this journey with renewed focus and energy, we reaffirm our commitment to quality, innovation, and community development,” he said. “Together, with Government of Rwanda support through NAEB, along with the vision and expertise of our new investors, we are poised to shape a brighter future for Sorwathé and the communities we proudly serve,” he added. The Vice Mayor of Rulindo District in charge of social affairs, Theophile Mutagana highlighted Sorwathe's critical role in uplifting local communities. “The factory operates in seven sectors: Base, Tumba, Cyungo, Rukozo, Kinihira, Gisaro, and Buyoga. It collaborates with communities in these sectors, where some individuals sell tea through cooperatives, while others are employed by the company. This highlights the factory's significance, as it enables the community to afford health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé), participate in the Ejo Heza savings scheme, and comply with other government policies,” he said. ALSO READ: Rwanda to directly export tea to Pakistani market According to the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), Rwanda’s tea industry has supported over 659 community projects since 2005, contributing significantly to rural development. These projects include schools, health centers, and water supply systems, underscoring the sector's role in improving livelihoods. Jean Nepo Nkurikiyinka, the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Federation of Rwanda Tea Growing Cooperatives, emphasized that today’s management transition marks a special day for farmers. The welfare of farmers depends on strong partnerships with stakeholders, and according to the testimonials shared, Sorwathe has been a crucial player in improving their well-being and that of cooperatives. The Chairman acknowledged Sorwathe’s significant contributions, highlighting how farmers’ children are now able to attend school, improving the overall well-being of their families. “As FERWACOTHE, we welcome the new management with a promise of collaboration and hope for continued success in uplifting the lives of farmers” David Knopp, Director of The Wood Foundation Africa, congratulated Andrew and his family on the successful exit and legacy of Sorwathe. He also welcomed Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd, the new owner, and praised their commitment to quality, integrity, and smallholder farmer development. Jotham Majyalibu, Chairman of the Rwanda Tea Association, welcomed guests to witness the transition of Sorwathe's management. He praised the new leadership for their vital role in the Rwanda Tea Industry and expressed hope that they will continue to make Rwanda proud, particularly in the production of quality teas and specialty teas. Atul Rastogi-Director Luxmi Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd appreciated the good work and great effort that has gone into making Sorwathe Ltd what it is today. He assured of the Company’s commitment to build on that legacy and move Sorwathe to greater heights for the benefit of all stakeholders. Nzeki Samuel Munyao, the CEO of Sorwathe Ltd thanked all those who were in attendance for joining them to celebrate the great legacy of Sorwathe Ltd and the management transition. He appreciated Veerendra Rawat, the Senior General Manager Sorwathe Ltd, Rahul Bedi the CFO Sorwathe Ltd and the entire team of Sorwathe Ltd for the good arrangement that made the celebrations a success. Claude Bizimana, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) commended the former management for its dedication, vision and the hard work that was paramount in shaping Sorwathe into a success story. He noted: “Sorwathe has contributed significantly to the agriculture sector in Rwanda and to the tea industry in particular. This strategic foresight and great commitment to quality and focus on sustainability have set an admirable benchmark for the entire industry. As we embrace this new leadership, I extend my warm welcome to the incoming leadership team and I'm confident that the expertise, energy and vision will propel it to even better heights.” Rwanda’s tea industry has grown steadily, with production increasing from 5,910 tonnes in 1980 to 40,003 tonnes by the financial year ending June 2024. The sector remains a vital contributor to Rwanda’s economy, with exports bringing in significant revenue and creating jobs for thousands of Rwandans. Sorwathe itself has over 2,400 workers. The event saw participation from many dignitaries including but not limited Company Directors, Leocadie Uwanyirigira, Chairman of ASSOPTHE, Innocent Ahoyankuye, the Secretary of the HOT Cooperative Board, Fidele Rwigema, Workers Representative Sorwathe, various bank representatives, among others.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Frank Ntarindwa" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/", "sameAs": ["https://www.facebook.com/TheNewTimesRwanda/","https://twitter.com/NewTimesRwanda","https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZbZj6DF9zWXpdZVceDZkg"], "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "/theme_newtimes/images/logo.png", "width": 270, "height": 57 } }, "copyrightHolder": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/" } }

The common murre, a large black-and-white seabird native to northern waters, has become far less common in Alaska over the past decade due to the impacts of climate change. A study published Thursday in Science reveals that a record-breaking marine heat wave in the northeast Pacific from 2014 to 2016 triggered a catastrophic population collapse, wiping out four million birds -- about half the species in the region. Strikingly, they have shown little signs of rebounding, suggesting long-term shifts in the food web that have locked the ecosystem into a troubling new equilibrium. "There's a lot of talk about declines of species that are tied to changes in temperature, but in this case, it was not a long term result," lead author Heather Renner of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge told AFP. "To our knowledge, this is the largest mortality event of any wildlife species reported during the modern era," she and her colleagues emphasized in their paper. The finding triggers "alarm bells," Renner said in an interview, as human-caused climate change makes heat waves more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting. With their dapper, tuxedoed look, common murres are sometimes called the "penguins of the north." Their slender wings power them across vast distances in search of food and make them expert divers. But even these hardy seabirds were no match for an unprecedented environmental catastrophe. The largest marine heat wave ever recorded began in the late fall of 2014, spanning a massive swath of the northeast Pacific Ocean from California to Alaska. It persisted for over two years, leaving devastation in its wake. During this time, some 62,000 emaciated murres washed ashore along the North American Pacific coastline -- dead or dying from starvation. Experts point to two key reasons for the bird deaths: elevated ocean temperatures reduced both the quality and quantity of phytoplankton, impacting fish like herring, sardines, and anchovies -- the mainstay of the murre diet. At the same time, warmer waters increased the energy demands of larger fish, such as salmon and Pacific cod, which compete with murres for the same prey. "We knew then it was a big deal, but unfortunately, we couldn't really quantify the effects," explained Renner. For years after the event, breeding colonies failed to produce chicks, complicating efforts to assess the full impact. Earlier estimates pegged the number of deaths at around a million, but a more robust analysis -- drawing on data from 13 murre colonies -- revealed the toll was four times higher. "It is just so much worse than we thought it was," Renner said of the new findings. The marine heat wave didn't just impact common murres. Pacific cod stocks collapsed, king salmon populations dwindled, and as many as 7,000 humpback whales perished. Yet the crisis created an uneven playing field: some species emerged unscathed, while others even thrived. Thick-billed murres, which often share nesting cliffs with common murres, were largely unaffected, possibly due to their more adaptable diet, Renner noted. For common murres, however, the fallout lingers. Despite nearly a decade since the heat wave, their numbers show no sign of bouncing back -- and the losses may well be permanent. Part of the reason lies in the long-term decline of some of their prey. Another factor is murres' survival strategy relies on numbers: they aggregate in massive colonies to protect their eggs from opportunistic predators like eagles and gulls. With their populations slashed, these birds have lost their critical safety buffer. Still, Renner offered a glimmer of hope. While addressing global warming is essential for curbing long-term climate change, conservation efforts can make a difference in the short term, she said. Removing invasive species like foxes and rats from murre nesting islands could also provide the beleaguered birds with a fighting chance. ia/desNone

The Latest: State funeral for Jimmy Carter will be Jan. 9Political earthquake in France

HOUSTON , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- OptiSigns, a leader in digital signage software solutions, is thrilled to announce its participation as a Platinum Sponsor in this year's Digital Signage Experience (DSE) 2024, taking place this December in Las Vegas, Nevada . The highly anticipated event, a premier gathering for digital signage innovators, professionals, and enthusiasts, will provide the perfect stage for OptiSigns to unveil its latest advancements and engage with industry leaders. Visitors of DSE 2024 will have the opportunity to experience firsthand how OptiSigns' powerful and user-friendly platform is transforming how businesses communicate, engage, and inform their audiences. From dynamic content scheduling to seamless integrations and real-time updates, OptiSigns' solutions are designed to meet the needs of businesses across industries, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, and more. "At OptiSigns, we are passionate about empowering businesses with technology that engages audiences and drives results," said Head of Sales John Shelley. "We are excited to connect with industry professionals at DSE 2024, showcase our solutions, and demonstrate how digital signage can transform communication strategies." DSE 2024 will take place from December 9, 2024 , to December 10, 2024 , at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada , and promises to bring together key players and thought leaders in digital signage, offering a unique platform to explore the latest technologies and network with industry professionals. What to Expect from OptiSigns at DSE 2024: Live Demonstrations: Visitors of DSE can visit OptiSigns booth #3134 to explore the intuitive features of the OptiSigns platform and learn how it can simplify and enhance digital signage management. Using OptiSigns innovative technology like the Pro Player and Android Stick, visitors will be treated to LIVE Demos of unique OptiSigns features like Audience Intelligence, the OptiSync Data Management System, and the Lift and Learn Interactive Kiosk Experience. New Product Announcements: Stop by OptiSigns booth #3134 and be the first to see the newest innovative Pro Max technology designed by OptiSigns and learn more about unique updates that will redefine the digital signage landscape. Our newest Pro Max technology is our most powerful digital signage player that supports 8K or 4x4K video walls. With OptiSigns experts onsite, visitors will have the opportunity to discuss trends, best practices, and strategies for maximizing the impact of digital signage. Exclusive Giveaways and Promotions: Attendees visiting OptiSigns booth #3134 will have access to special offers, giveaways, and prizes. This year, OptiSigns will unleash their interactive Opti Claw Machine, tantalizing visitors with a chance to win OptiSigns Android Sticks, Pro Players, Optibot Keychains, and more. One lucky winner will win a brand new PS5 Pro via a LinkedIn competition, and the winner will be announced LIVE at DSE! For more information on the PS5 giveaway, check out OptiSigns' LinkedIn page. About OptiSigns OptiSigns is a leading digital signage software provider dedicated to helping businesses create engaging, impactful content experiences. Focusing on simplicity, scalability, and innovation, OptiSigns empowers organizations to communicate their message effectively and captivate their audience through digital displays. For more information on OptiSigns, visit www.optisigns.com or follow us on all social media @OptiSignsInc. Media Contact: Aisha Albritton Director of Trade Show Strategy and Event Marketing Aisha.Albritton@OptiSigns.com | (404) 641-0613 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/optisigns-to-showcase-cutting-edge-digital-signage-solutions-at-the-digital-signage-experience-2024-in-las-vegas-302320107.html SOURCE OptiSigns

Sindh govt to provide full security to Chinese investors: SharjeelAngela Carini, the Italian Olympic boxer who lost her match to the controversial Algerian boxer who failed a male sex test, has come roaring back to win her eighth Italian women’s title last weekend. “Tonight was my revenge,” Carini proclaimed proudly on Sunday after winning the title, according to Fox News. Carini was the Olympic boxer who famously lost her bout in only 46 seconds against Algerian opponent Imane Khelif at the 2024 Olympics in Paris this year. The Italian withdrew from the ring after receiving several very powerful blows to her head. After her bout, she said she had never been hit so hard by an opponent in her entire boxing career. “I got into the ring to fight,” Carini said after the Olympic match. “I didn’t give up, but one punch hurt too much. And, so, I said ‘enough.'” Khelif instantly became the center of controversy for being allowed to compete as a female in the International Olympic Games in Paris this year, even after being banned in 2023 by the International Boxing Association (IBA) for allegedly testing positive for male XY chromosomes. Olympic boxing trainer Rafa Lozano even pointed out that Khelif had been barred from boxing with women in training because they considered the Algerian to be far too dangerous for women to face in the ring. The controversy over Khelif’s real gender continued when, after the Olympics, another report emerged that Khelif was more male than female and had the internal makeup of a man, not a woman. The report added that Khelif has internal testes, a “micropenis” and XY chromosomes. Khelif’s biological status, reportedly assembled by the Kremlin-Bicêtre hospital in Paris, France, and the Mohamed Lamine Debaghine hospital in Algiers, Algeria, revealed that the IBA may have been correct in its ruling that Khelif is a male and should be banned from women’s boxing. The report claims that Khelif suffers from a 5-alpha reductase deficiency, a sexual organ disorder that is only found in males. Despite her initial shock and distress after the Olympics, Carini tried apologizing to Khelif. “All this controversy makes me sad,” Carini said of the negative attention Khelif was receiving. “I’m sorry for my opponent, too. If the IOC said she can fight, I respect that decision.” “It wasn’t something I intended to do,” Carini insisted. “Actually, I want to apologize to her and everyone else. I was angry because my Olympics had gone up in smoke.” Follow Warner Todd Huston on Facebook at: facebook.com/Warner.Todd.Huston , or Truth Social @WarnerToddHuston

Ye and Kid Cudi 's 2018 group album, Kids See Ghosts , remains a must-hear for fans. On Sunday (Dec. 29), it was revealed that the album has surpassed over a billion streams on Spotify. The seven-song collaboration was among the high-profile G.O.O.D. Music collection of albums from the Wyoming recordings. On the rise, Kid Cudi and Ye trailblazed a new style of hip-hop that is imitated in today's music. The album's highlights include collaborations with Ty Dolla $ign , Pusha T , and Yasiin Bey . Its hits are "Feel The Love," "Freeee (Ghost Town, Pt. 2)," and "Reborn." Kanye's production on the album vibrates with layered textures, confessional lyrics, and spiritual affirmations. The album's heart lies in Kid Cudi’s melodic depth and vulnerability. His voice shifts from headline-driven to deeply cathartic. Kids See Ghosts explores their personal battles with mental health and public controversy with raw honesty and an unmistakable synergy. Together, their dynamic creates a sense of release that resonates throughout the record. Read more: Kids See Ghosts "Kids See Ghosts" Review View this post on Instagram A post shared by Our Generation Music (@ourgenerationmusic) Fans celebrated the new milestone on social media. "I wish to pray for days like this," commented a user on Instagram. About Ye's performance on the album, a user commented: "Imo, this album had Ye’s most underrated rapping performances." A user credited the album for saving mentality, commenting, "After realese from jail reborn cured my mentality." While the duo haven't collaborated since 2018 due to beef. In August, Cudi revealed he wasn’t aware that "Gun to My Head," a bonus track from Kanye’s Vultures 2 album featuring Ty Dolla $ign and himself, had been released. A fan complimented his vocal performance on the track, prompting Cudi to reply: “It’s tasty. Hope Ye drops that one day.” This news left the Cleveland-born artist visibly surprised. “Where??? I wanna hear it. Forgot what it sounds like [crying face emoji]. I only heard it once at the listening event,” Cudi wrote. After learning the track was available for purchase on Kanye’s Yeezy website, though reportedly sold out, Cudi responded with humor: “What da hell is he doin??? Haha ima talk to him.” Read more: Will Kids See Ghosts Ever Make Another Album? [ Via ]Kellanova stock falls Monday, underperforms market

Stocks in news: Senores Pharma, RIL, Adani Enterprises, Vodafone Idea, Ola Electric & Reliance Power

Leading cryptocurrencies declined Sunday as the "Santa Claus Rally" faded heading into the New Year. Cryptocurrency Gains +/- Price (Recorded at 8:30 p.m. ET) Bitcoin BTC/USD -1.25% $93,670.65 Ethereum ETH/USD +1.15% $3,338.32 Dogecoin DOGE/USD -3.03% $0.3142 What Happened : Bitcoin slipped below $93,000 in the evening but recovered to $93,600 as traders purchased the dip. The market has dramatically reversed course since the leading cryptocurrency teased the $100,000 level on Christmas. Bitcoin was down 2.79% in December, compared to gains of 4.76% for the month on average. Ethereum followed a similar trajectory until a brief surge late in the evening, which resulted in 24-hour gains for the cryptocurrency. Nearly $160 million was liquidated from the market in the last 24 hours, with long liquidations accounting for $117 million. Bitcoin's Open Interest fell 0.16% in the last 24 hours, coinciding with the drop in price. However, traders were hopeful of a price rebound as the number of long positions for the coin exceeded shorts, according to the Long/Short Ratio. The "Greed" sentiment weakened from 73 to 65, according to the Crypto Fear & Greed Index, implying lower buying interest ahead of New Year. Top Gainers (24-Hours) Cryptocurrency Gains +/- Price (Recorded at 8:30 p.m. ET) Ethena (ENA) +7.55% $1.00 FTX Token (FTT) +5.48% $3.58 Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL) +5.12% $3.56 The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.27 trillion, following a drop of 2.02% in the last 24 hours. Stock futures ticked lower Sunday evening. The Dow Jones Industrial Average Futures fell 49 points, or 0.11%, as of 8:35 p.m. EDT. Futures tied to the S&P 500 dipped 0.07%, while Nasdaq 100 Futures was down slightly by 0.01%. Blue-chip averages were set to end 2024 on a high, with the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising 25.89% and 14%, respectively. See More: Best Cryptocurrency Scanners Analyst Notes: Noted cryptocurrency analyst Ali Martinez spotted a buy signal on Bitcoin's hourly chart using the TD Sequential indicator. However, he cautioned that the reversal thesis would be validated only if $93,000 is held as support. The TD Sequential indicator presented a buy signal on the #Bitcoin $BTC hourly chart, anticipating a price rebound if, only if, the $93,000 support holds. pic.twitter.com/bQZIt5rzAO Another well-known chartist, Rekt Capital, noted the flipping of old support levels as resistance, confirming the downside. $94,250 on the daily would need to be lost for the price to drop into the low $90,000s," the analyst added. #BTC Old supports are acting as new resistance As a result, technically, the breakdown has been confirmed But the follow-through in bearish downside continuation ever since has been relatively limited thus far $94250 on the Daily would need to be lost for price to drop into... https://t.co/HiCeSyGroA pic.twitter.com/fNGbcWrHdZ Photo by Avi Rozen on Shutterstock Read Next: Bill Gates Expressed Skepticism Towards Bitcoin: ‘I Would Short It’ If Possible © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Who is the Hyderabad techie getting married to badminton champion PV Sindhu? Meet Venkata DattaA rich picture has emerged of the three men who left a message hidden inside the walls of a Scottish lighthouse 132 years ago, thanks to the work of genealogists. Earlier this month BBC Scotland News revealed a bottle containing the note had been Written with quill and ink and dated 4 September 1892, it revealed the names of the three workers who installed a new type of light in the 100ft (30m) tower. Now experts from genealogy firm Findmypast have pored over censuses and newspaper archives to uncover the story of the workers who left the intriguing time capsule. Queen Victoria was on the throne and Gladstone was leading a Liberal government but the genealogists' research reveals details of the ordinary working men who travelled from Edinburgh to leave their mark on the remote lighthouse. The first name on the concealed letter was that of John Westwood, a 28-year-old millwright - a tradesman who works with machinery - from Edinburgh. He had travelled from the capital to the lighthouse at the most northerly point of the Rhins of Galloway to carry out the project for James Milne & Son. As a millwright, he was following in the footsteps of his father, David Westwood. He ran his own millwright business, with John's eldest two brothers, David, a millwright, and Alexander, a mechanical draughtsman. Born in St Andrews, Fife, in 1864, John was the youngest of eight siblings. His two eldest sisters, Mary and Margaret, worked as domestic servants when John and his other three siblings were still at school. When John reached 16 he too became a millwright. By 1891, John had moved to Edinburgh and was living as a lodger with a widowed pianoforte maker, Richard Honeyman, 70, and his daughter, Helen, 45. A year later he was sent on the Corsewall Lighthouse project. He married Margaret Gow, the 26-year-old daughter of a contractor from Blairgowrie, in 1896. They went on to have three children - John, Jane and Neil. And John Sr lived a long life. He died aged 93 in March 1958 at Edinburgh City Hospital. James Brodie was 48 when the trio of workers concealed the bottle. He was a James Milne & Sons engineer who had also travelled from Edinburgh. Born in Renfrewshire in 1844, he was the eldest of James and Margaret's five children. Census records show that he was an apprentice engineer when he was 17, and he lived with his parents on George Street in Greenock. His father was a shawl weaver and his mother was a cotton winder. In 1868 he married Annie F Scott in Paisley. By the time he wrote the secret note they had seven children under the age of 14 and were living on Tannahill Place, Paisley. David Scott was 32 when he left the note in the lighthouse and worked as a labourer for James Milne & Sons. He was born in 1860, the son of Jane and William Scott, a grain loftman in Edinburgh. When he wrote the lighthouse note he was still living with his housekeeper mother, his sister Jane Mackay, a millworker, and her two sons David and William at 40 Fox Street in Edinburgh. Ten years later, 41-year-old David was still single and boarding with the Munro family (James, Jane and their infant son John) at 41 Leith Walk, Edinburgh. He had become more specialised in his trade and was now working as a lead and metal worker. All three men worked for James Milne & Son, a business that was founded "prior to 1750" as brassfounders. In 1821 they fitted the author Sir Walter Scott's Melrose home, Abbotsford, with an oil-gas plant and by 1837 they were making gas meters. Around 1885, they moved from their premises in Edinburgh's High Street to the larger Milton House Works, in Abbeyhill. Their Glasgow branch opened two years later, where they displayed gasoliers, pumps, light-fittings and the Wenham Patent Gas Lamp. By the late 1890s, they were making "lamps for lighthouses" and specialised in aluminium. The bottle containing the note was found by Ross Russell, a Northern Lighthouse Board mechanical engineer, during an inspection. He spotted it after removing panels in a cupboard but it was well out of arm's reach. The team retrieved it using a contraption made from a rope and a broom handle. He said he was blown away to find out about the men who had written the note. "I've touched the note and the bottle but never in my wildest dreams would I have thought we would find out all this about their lives," he said. "It's just incredible." Jen Baldwin, a research specialist at Findmypast, said: "These rare mementoes offer such a wonderful window into the past. "From just a name, date and location, we've been able to trace some of their stories back in time and build up a rich picture of their lives and the world around them. "This one lighthouse project might appear at first glance simple and remote, but these workers were part of a revolution in technology and engineering during the late 1800s and were enabling ships to safely navigate through a busy sea passage - part of a wider network of trade and travel routes across a global empire." Historian Eric Melvin said: "The Carsewell Lighthouse story of the hidden message in a bottle is absolutely fascinating. "To discover an original contemporary source is always exciting but to find one deliberately hidden away is intriguing. "Did the three engineers plan this together? What motivated them? Did they tell anyone about the hidden bottle and did they leave any clues? "Great credit is due to those who have researched their family stories."