My Mummy is a Mermaid: a book, a lighthouse and a cause close to my heart

This summer, North Berwick is home to something rather magical. Fifteen hand-painted lighthouses are making their way around the town as part of the Leuchie Lighthouse Trail, on display from 1 July to 21 August 2026. The trail raises vital funds for Leuchie House, the UK’s only national respite centre, supporting families impacted by the devastating affects of a neurological condition.

Claudia’s lighthouse is a little different from the others. Its design is drawn entirely from the characters in her and Lynn’s debut children’s book, My Mummy is a Mermaid. Beneath the waves at the base of the sculpture, you’ll find an underwater world full of the sea creatures and coastal characters from the story! From Geronimo to Myrtle, Donna to Ringo, families can immerse themselves in the joy these characters bring.

Having worked at Leuchie for many years, painting a lighthouse for the trail has been something close to Claudia’s heart. She saw it as the perfect opportunity to combine two passions: her love of illustration and how inspired she is by the guests and carers who benefit so much from Leuchie’s services.

The story of My Mummy is a Mermaid carries a message that feels especially meaningful in a coastal town like North Berwick. It’s a story about keeping our beaches and seas clean, and why that matters for future generations, for sea life, and for all of us who love the coast. Painting a lighthouse felt like the perfect way to bring that message to life in the town she calls home.

If you get the chance to walk the trail this summer, look out for Claudia’s lighthouse alongside many other beautiful designs. And if the story resonates, you can sign up to receive updates and be the first to know how to pre-order the magical story to come…