Canine charity takes lead at Rotary club

There were plenty of paws for thought among Monklands Rotarians as a special visitor took the lead during a charity talk.

Representatives from Bravehound – who provide dogs and dog training for veterans to promote better physical and mental health – brought support dog Maggie along to the Coatbridge, Airdrie and Monklands Rotary Club meeting.

Veteran Michael Emans and charity CEO Fiona MacDonald spoke about the work the organisation does throughout Scotland – and how it needs funding to pay for the dogs and their training.

The Monklands Rotarians then surprised their guests by handing over a £200 donation to the charity.

A spokesperson for the Rotary club said: “Everyone was very taken with calm and quiet support dog Maggie.

“Her appearance attracted a number of visitors, including young David Lindsay, and it was a pleasure to hear from Michael and Fiona.

“Bravehound provide a wonderful support service for many people across the country and it was fascinating to find out more about it.

“Michael and Fiona were very happy with our £200 donation and we were delighted to do something to support the charity.”

The Rotary club was the recipient of a cash boost itself when Scotmid presented a £500 community grant to help with the organisation’s Monklands Talking Newspaper facility.

The cheque was presented at the newspaper’s annual general meeting and will go towards its fantastic work providing audio recordings of the Advertiser for the blind and partially sighted.

For further details on the Coatbridge, Airdrie and Monklands Rotary Club and its talks and events, visit www.facebook.com/ RotaryCAM/

More information on the Bravehound charity is available at www.bravehound.co.uk/

Barking up the right tree Fiona MacDonald (centre, left) and support dog Maggie (front) gratefully accept the Rotarians’ £200 donation

Welcome boost Monklands Talking Newspaper volunteers were thrilled with the £500 community grant from Scotmid