Afternoon vintage tea raises cash for groups

HIGHLAND Hospice Fort William and Lochaber Showstoppers raised more than £1,400 by co-hosting a vintage afternoon tea.

The 1940s themed fundraiser took place in Ballachulish Village hall on Saturday April 8.

A total of £1,460.52, which was split between the two groups, was raised on the day

Maggie Wilson of Lochaber Hospice skillfully set the scene with vintage tableware, lamps, ornaments, tablecloths and other decorative items.

The Showstoppers provided the entertainment for more than 80 guests, with soloists and the chorus singing a variety of songs from the era including The White Cliffs of Dover, Cheek to Cheek and Doris Day songs.

Song sheets were provided so that people could join in.

Jane Angus of Lochaber Showstoppers helped organise the baking and prize draws.

She said: ‘ We wanted to do something during the day for more elderly people who wouldn't want to come out at night and we wanted to bring it to the wider community outside Fort William. We had a tremendous response.’

Ms Wilson said: ' We were overwhelmed by the support. People came from all over Lochaber. We made everyone feel special and you could see people were sharing memories with the music.

‘The tables were groaning with home-baking and people donated items for the raffle. Thanks go to everyone who helped and supported the event.’