Paisley Daily Express

Put forward a title for Highlander and raise charity cash

- Colette Crampsey

You can raise money for a Paisley charity by helping to name a Highlander.

Tom Chalmers, of the Renfrewshi­re Witch Hunt Project, has launched a fundraisin­g drive with a tartan twist.

Tom, who works in the Paisley Centre, was donated a mannequin from staff at the recently closed Co-op store.

He dressed his new friend in Highland costume in a bid to boost funds for Accord Hospice.

Folks are being asked to pay £1 to enter into a competitio­n to name the figure, with the winner chosen at random.

Up for grabs is a hamper packed with traditiona­l Scottish Food and drink.

Tom said: “The idea is to raise money for the local good cause and help raise awareness for the work Accord do, but do it in a fun and lightheart­ed way.

“The hospice depends on donations to function, so it’s about raising awareness too.”

Tom’s Highlander came to life thanks to local artist Garry Byars, who painted features on his face and coloured his body flesh toned.

The naming raffle was thereafter launched by Provost Jean Cameron, who donated Renfrewshi­re Council whisky and a quaich to the hamper prize.

Tom added: “There’s been a lot of support so far from the community and local businesses.

“We’ve raised around £140 so far, but I’m hopeful to raise much more over the coming weekends.”

The Buddie Highlander will soon be embarking on a Paisley bar crawl, giving punters the chance to enter into the naming raffle.

“Twenty local pubs have agreed, starting with The Kyle this Saturday and The Wee Howff after.

“I hope the people of Paisley come together to help boost funds in support of the hospice.”

If any local pubs want to get involved, they can do so by phoning Tom on 07749 029 175.

 ??  ?? A fundraiser fling Tom Chalmers, Provost Lorraine Cameron and artist Gary Byars
A fundraiser fling Tom Chalmers, Provost Lorraine Cameron and artist Gary Byars

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