East Sutherland groups benefit from Kilbraur Trust fund
Sutherland groups have received a boost to their funds, thanks to the latest round of community benefit paid out by Kilbraur Wind Farm.
The wind farm, operated by Falck Renewables Wind Ltd since 2008, makes annual payments to the Kilbraur Windfarm Community Benefit Trust. Community groups are invited to apply to the Trust for funding for specific projects.
One of the recipients was the Sutherland Schools Pipe Band who received £10,000 to buy new uniforms. Vice chairman James Kelly said: "It has been absolutely fantastic to receive this money from the wind farm. We were getting to the stage where the band uniforms had been mended so often there was almost nothing left of them.
"We’ve been invited to play at the one hundredth anniversary of the Calgary Stampede next year and in their new uniforms the band will be great ambassadors for Sutherland."
Golspie Golf Club received £8400 to buy a new mower specially designed for rough ground. Secretary Robert Beaton said: "We’re delighted with the grant for a new mower. It will help keep the course well presented and make it more visitor friendly."
The Trust also awarded £3240 to Golspie Bowling Club to renew artificial banking and £2750 to the Rotary Club of East Sutherland to create a wildflower meadow at Drummuie.
Also benefitting from funding from the Trust was Rogart PTA who were awarded £15,000 for play equipment and Gaarfields Day Care Centre at Brora Primary School which received £1748 towards providing a chill out room for children.
Steve Wonderley, chairman of the Trust said: "All these organisations play a valuable part in our community and we’re delighted to have been able to offer them financial support.
"We consider applications to the Trust every three months and if anyone would like to find out more or to apply for funding they should visit our website at www.kilbraurwindfarmcbt.co.uk."