Handson helpis needed
“On behalf of myself and my fellow community councillors Alastair Campbell, Beth Sadler, Dave Fish, Gavin Lennox and Jim Johnson, we would like to recognise the work done by, and thank, our colleague Derek Riddell.
“He arranged all the initial meetings in order to get things moving, asked all of the right questions and kept the momentum going throughout the entire project.
“This project would never have been started without the help of Councillor Margaret Cooper. We would still be years away from opening our park.
“Due to her comprehensive knowledge she was able to tell us who to approach to source funding and she arranged the design of the play park.
“When problems arose she was always there with a solution and advice.
Following the opening, Councillor Cooper added:“it has been a privilege to work with Chapelton Community Council on this important asset to village facilities and I was honoured to be asked to declare the park open.” The Hands On Project are looking for volunteers in Strathaven to help with everyday tasks.
The project provides free practical assistance to people over 50 with the handyperson and befriending service.
The Handyperson Service, organised by charity LEAP, provides free, practical help with small jobs and tasks such as changing lightbulbs, curtains and smoke alarm batteries, building small flatpack furniture, and fitting new curtain poles.
The Befriending Service provides short or long-term one-to-one friendship and companionship to older people who may be isolated or lonely.
Tom Milne recently carried out a few small odd jobs for Ann Morton, who said: “The handy person service has been a great help and I have always been delighted with the jobs.”
Helen Mccallum, who has also been helped by volunteer befriender Willie Kerr, added: “I always look forward to the visits from my befriender each week.
“I’m delighted with the help they have provided – the Hands On Project offers a great service and I would recommend it to anyone who is need of it.”
Anyone who is interested in finding out more about volunteering is encouraged to call LEAP on 01355 433 102 or visit www.leap-project.co.uk