Lifeboat helpers have a ball as funds are raised

THE LERWICK Branch of The Royal National Lifeboat Institution held its annual charity ball and raffle on Friday at the Town Hall. Guests enjoyed a fine dinner followed by dancing to Da Fustra. The ball is an important event on the fundraising calendar, which raised over £7,000 for the charity.

President of the Lerwick Ladies Guild Linda Simpson took the opportunity to report on the donations received by the branch and fundraising events held during the charity’s last financial year, resulting in an overall total of £50,000. Reporting on the current year, Mrs Simpson said: “2008 has, to date, also been a very successful fundraising year for the Lerwick branch. Our events have included the annual whist drive, coffee morning and open day. We wish to express our sincere thanks to all those involved in these events, which raised a total sum of £9,235.” She said donations made through collecting boxes located in many shops and businesses throughout Shetland had raised £5,625 and praised the sum of £797.13 raised by Alan Longmuir and Jonathan Wills on the Dunter III.

Fundraising will continue with the Christmas shop, which will be open on Saturdays and Thursdays from now until 18th December and a bag pack at Tesco on 29th November.

“Santa promises to make his annual trip to Lerwick on 13th December. He plans to arrive on the Lifeboat, then make his way to his grotto in the RNLI shop.”

Ladies from the guild will also make their annual trip to Yell on Saturday 8th November where they will have a stall at the Old Haa Trust’s craft fair in the Burravoe Hall. They will have a selection of Christmas cards and gifts available for sale as well as a lucky dip. “Despite the many deserving charities that seek assistance, we are delighted that the people of Shetland continue to value and support the vital service provided by the RNLI.”