Buccaneers raise cash for RNLI

A BAND of pirates took over Port Appin hall last Saturday at an event that raised £900 for the Oban RNLI.

A competition for the bestdressed pirate brought out youngsters from Appin and Port Appin, complete with cutlasses, eye patches and hats.

While the little pirates sought out the treasure on offer, adults enjoyed some tea and homebaking and bought plants grown for the occasion by RNLI Oban committee member and Airds Hotel gardener Les Hazelgrave.

Moira Kerr, secretary of the RNLI Oban fundraising group, said: ‘ We are delighted at the turnout from the communities of Appin and Port Appin today and we have also had a great response from volunteers.

‘ We have a small fundraising group but a lot of great helpers that we can call upon when we have events on. To be honest, we couldn’t do anything like this without their help. I’d like to thank them for their continued support and thank everyone who contributed homebaking.’

Four-year- old Emily Hunt won best- dressed pirate, followed by Emma Paterson, two, and William MacLeod, three, in joint second, and 18-monthold Amber Sterling in third. Competition judge, Dr Iain McNicol also made special mention of Iona Thomson, who made her own costume.

Clockwise from top right are: The little pirates gather for the judging; The hard-working members of the RNLI Oban fundraising committee and helpers; Friends William MacLeod and Emma Paterson were placed joint second in the best dressed pirate competition; Four-year- old Emily Hunt from Appin was named best dressed pirate; Little William Steuart- Fotheringham was one of the youngest pirates; Pirate pals Courtney Keillor, left, and Emily Hunt.