Emerald Sunday’s Ben Nevis gig tops off fundraiser for little Leo

Rock band scales Scotland’s highest peak to raise cash so four-year-old with rare illness can take dream Disney trip

An Angus family can now plan a trip of a lifetime to Disney World in Florida to make precious memories with their terminally ill son thanks to the incredible support of their local community.

On a weekend that saw Tayside rock band Emerald Sunday scale Britain’s highest mountain to perform a unique gig on the summit of Ben Nevis, raising more than £2,000, Bruce and Helen Stott of Delson Contracts Ltd donated £6,000 to enable Claire and Ricky Davidson, of Kirriemuir, to fly out to the sunshine state with their three children at Easter.

The couple’s world fell apart in May when their four-year-old son Leo was diagnosed as one of only 150 in the world with the life-limiting genetic condition infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy.

He has a life expectancy of between five and 10 years after inheriting the condition from his parents, who are both carriers of the gene in a one-in-amillion chance.

They set up a JustGiving page to fund special memories with Leo, 10-year-old Taylor and one-year-old Pyper-Rose, which has raised £4,250.

On Saturday Emerald Sunday set off with a group of determined walkers – including Ricky – at 7.30am, with the first reaching the summit at 11.15am.

Guitarist Alan Hunter said: “It was a very emotional day.

“Ricky showed unbelievable courage and determination as he was carrying a knee injury.

“He made it despite being in pain and was given a hero’s welcome as he approached the top.

“It was a fantastic day, one we’ll never forget.

“A guitar used on the day, signed by the band and everyone who joined us, is up for auction on September 21 at a charity gig at the Gairie Inn in Kirriemuir.”

Helen Stott said: “When we heard what the family was going through, we felt we had to do something to help.

“Hopefully they will be able to book the trip soon to make special memories.”

Claire, 26, said the family was overwhelmed by the support and is now hoping to book their once-in-a-lifetime visit to the Walt Disney World Resort.

The additional funds raised will help purchase a special bed and chair for Leo.

Claire said: “It has been absolutely crazy, we never expected our wee town to get behind us like this. J&D Wilkie have also matched £870 raised by staff at the factory, making £1,740.

“We are so grateful for everything and are just trying to enjoy our time with Leo.”

Picture left: Mhairi Edwards. Left: Leo with his mum Claire. Right: The band played an acoustic set after climbing Ben Nevis.