Bikers ride to rescue of medieval village under siege by Covid

Big-hearted bikers are going full throttle for a charity effort to help a medieval-themed village get through the Covid-19 crisis.

Duncarron in the Carron Valley was opened by the Clanranald Trust charity last year, offering a centre for visitors keen to learn about Scotland’s heritage and culture.

The site has also become a popular destination for film crews on various projects, including hit TV shows ‘Outlander’ and ‘Norsemen’ as well as films ‘Outlaw King’ and ‘Gladiator’.

But, with the impact of the pandemic hitting the tourism sector particularly hard, Duncarron has found itself without funding after filming and educational trips were put on hold.

The situation has forced motorcycle organisation the Widows Sons to spring into action, with the bikers now selling t-shirts emblazoned with the appeal logo as well as setting up an online raffle with prizes ranging from a weekend holiday to antique swords.

Early fundraising has already gathered £4000 for the cause and has been supported by famous faces including ‘Outlander’ star Sam Heughan, who shared the appeal on his Twitter page.

Alan Boyle, president of Widows Sons Scotland, said: “Duncarron Medieval Fort is a jewel in Scotland’s crown and offers the chance for our youth to learn in a practical way about life in that era.

“Duncarron has been selffunded by renting it out to TV and film companies along with supplying period fighters through Combat International for these projects and a sizeable chunk of the band Soar Patrol’s earnings.

“All their income streams have dried up and the village is receiving no financial help from government, local government or Lottery funding.”

Tickets for the online draw can be purchased from the Widows Sons Facebook page at https://bit. ly/3fJAdYa until Sunday at noon.

T-shirts are available at www. pictama.co.uk/duncarronappeal.