Frank’s fundraising gull book is flying off the shelves
FRANK MURRAY, from Arbroath, had an unusual job many years ago.
In 1985, he won the contract from the local council to move all of the seagull nests and eggs which were engulfing the coastal town.
Frank recalls it being a big deal to get all of the gulls out of Arbroath at the time.
His experiences led to him writing a book, Little Wull The Gull, based on his attempts to rid the area of the bothersome birds.
More than three decades on, Frank was given the devastating diagnosis last year that he had Motor Neurone Disease.
Coming to terms with the news was understandably tough for Frank, wife Anne and daughters Lesley and Jill.
When he heard about a friend taking part in a sponsored cycle to raise funds for MND Scotland, Frank was inspired to help the charity in whatever way he could.
He began thinking about ways he might be able to contribute.
Unfortunately he doesn’t get out of the house much these days, but surely there must be something he could do.
Then he cast his mind back to his Little Wull The Gull book from years earlier. That version had an adult theme, but he thought Wull would be perfect to reinvent for a children’s audience.
He got to work, noting down ideas and stories and it quickly came together.
He let his daughters see his story and they were very enthusiastic.
Local artist Val Shuff contributed illustrations for the mischievous gull’s adventures and local firm Calden Motors sponsored the printing of 300 books.
The copies have been flying off the shelves in local shops in recent weeks and Frank’s raised nearly £1000 for the charity already, with sales continuing to go strong.
He’s had congratulatory phone calls and messages from friends and acquaintances who have bought a copy or heard about his fundraising efforts.
Anne says the success of the book has given her husband, who was finding it difficult to cope without a hobby or being able to get out and about, a real lift.
And he has plenty more adventures in mind for Little Wull The Gull, so expect a sequel for his feathered friend to take flight before too long.
If you’re interested in a copy, contact lesley.murray360@ googlemail.com