AS this newspaper published on August 8, local Foley Court resident, Anne McAulay-Edmond, embarked on an ambitious venture to raise money for future residents of the care home.
Anne organised a raffle for the island to get involved in and was surprised to see it ‘grow into a great big adventure with the kindness of 37 businesses and more individuals, both on the island and beyond’.
She added: “A highlight of the year, both for Bield Housing and Care in Scotland and Bield Foley Court.”
The residents, along with volunteers Christine,
John, Tina and Angie from Cowal and Bute Befrienders thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful afternoon, as a varied selection of music was played from some of the island’s best musicians.
Kees provided and accordion background, whilst Fiona Shaw, founder of Ballianlay Choir and chair of Bute Arts Society, serenaded the residents with a selection of Scottish and light operatic songs, before Bute Ukulele Band provided a 60s and 70s sing-along.
The raffle itself was drawn by Jacqueline Campbell, area manager
for Bield Housing and Care who travelled from Inverness for the occasion, with the main raffle drawn by Stewart Shaw.
Among over 50 prizes was three pairs of tickets for the Waverley, an open-top bus tour and alpaca tours.
Debbie, in her closing remarks, thanked everyone who helped make the event, before being presented with a cheque for £2,505.60.
Fiona then brought the event to a close with a rendition of Climb Every Mountain from from the Sound of Music.
Organiser, Anne, said: “My heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this very special event possible.
“To Christine, without whose help the event would not have been possible, to my manageress Debbie, always with her invaluable help and support to me, to all who bought raffle tickets and beyond to businesses and individuals who offered to help sell them, to our volunteers who gave us a great afternoon of entertainment–my heartfelt thank-you.”
“There is true kindness on this island and beyond.
“The event will be remembered for a long time to come, with future events already being planned.”
