Published: Wednesday, 4th April, 2007 15:57
Neigh bother
By Amanda Ramsden
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Fundraiser horses about for charity
A BARRHEAD fundraiser has swapped driving plant machinery for riding a horse — in the name of charity.
James, 39, is taking the lessons in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.
The father-of-four, who lives in Simpson Gardens, got the idea when he took his six-year-old daughter for a horse riding lesson. He said: `Someone at the riding centre suggested I get on one of the horses.
`I said to them 'well if I'm going to do that it might as well be for charity!'
`It was nervewracking to begin with, I'm used to operating plant machinery and I can tell you riding a horse is not as easy as it looks.
`I was sponsored to go round the circuit three times on the horse firstly walking, trotting and then cantering.`
Every year James raises money for the cancer charity and it's a cause close to his heart after he lost his brother and two friends to the disease.
He said: `I know from my own experiences the good work the Macmillan nurses do. That's why I decided to raise money for them, so they can help other families. `
After five half hour lessons and cheered on by wife Kathleen, James and his trusty stead successfully completed the circuit last Sunday at Muirhouse Farm's riding school in Uplawmoor.
He was joined by fellow fundraiser and friend David Rowan to run the course.
He said: `The support I've had from everyone has been fantastic and I'd like to thank all those who donated and the riding school for allowing us to hold the event here.`
James' horsing around paid off as they are still tallying up the money made but the total looks set to exceed a fantastic £1,100.
Gina Henderson, convenor of Renfrew Association for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: `I know James very well and think it's excellent that he organised this event and got so much support.`
Macmillan Cancer Support will hold their next fundraiser in Caldwell Parish Church, Uplawmoor, on Saturday April 21.
The Orpheus Choir will be bringing music to everyone's ears with a charity concert. The event starts at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £5 which includes a supper afterwards and can be purchased at the door.
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Further Details
Tribute to mum aged 32