Alness, Invergordon, Dingwall and Ullapool groups share National Lottery delight
AN Easter Ross group which built its own boat is on the crest of a wave after a National Lottery funding boost.
Alness Invergordon Rowing (AIR) is one of several groups in Ross-shire celebrating funding boosts that aim to bring together local people, deliver essential services and provide much-needed support to communities.
Alness Invergordon Rowing receive £2106 for their community boat-building initiative. It aims to offer an inclusive, community space that promotes physical exercise, mental well-being and social interaction.
Club secretary Sally Kershaw said: “No one in the group knew how to build a boat when we started making it last May. It was a bit overwhelming! However we began tentatively to follow the instructions. Through working from just a kit and a manual, we're now well on our way to launching the club's boat!
SEE ALSO
Alness Academy pupil chosen as rowing club logo winner
Port of Cromarty Firth boost for Alness and Invergordon Rowing Club
“A group of eight meet three times a week to work on building it and we're really looking forward to involving many more people, from the community, young and old to join us in rowing on the Cromarty Firth!
“The National Lottery funding has arrived at the perfect time, just when need paint for the boat to keep it waterproof. We have learned a lot and have much more still to learn, but we are all feeling quite proud of what we've done so far.”
78-year-old Pat from Shillinghill is a regular member of the build team. He said: "I really enjoy being part of the boat-building team. I've learned a lot and made some great new friends."
Community Support and Information, Ross-shire has secured £108,350 to develop their community café and event space in Dingwall. Sheila's Community Café provides home-cooked, nutritious meals on a pay-what-you-can basis ensuring affordability for all.
They will expand the use of their event space, creating a 'one-stop' facility where local organisations can hold regular drop-ins, providing information on a range of topics including benefits, housing and addiction support.
Lochbroom and Ullapool Gardeners and Growers Society meanwhile has been awarded £5000. This group will use the funding to refurbish the polytunnel at their community allotments in Ullapool.
Kate Still, Scotland Chair, The National Lottery Community Fund said: At the National Lottery Community Fund we are so proud to be able to support groups like Alness Invergordon Rowing (AIR) and Combat Stress to make a real and lasting difference and help address the challenges their communities face.
“It’s all made possible by National Lottery players and we’re excited to see the outcomes of all of the funded projects across the Highlands in the months ahead.”
The National Lottery Community Fund distributes funding on behalf of National Lottery players who raise more than £30 million each week for good causes throughout the UK.
