Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Spreading the joy in his native town
Mark’s foundation gives community boost
Mark Millar says he “can’t wait” for two exciting community events his foundation has organised for the festive period.
The Coatbridge comic book hero has arranged two feel-good afternoon outings for pensioners in his native Townhead – both of which are free.
A variety show will be held at St Bartholomew’s Church hall next Sunday, December 17, while a free Christmas lunch is being held in Townhead Parish Church hall on the same day.
Various personalities including Mark’s brother, singer Paul French, will grace the variety performance; with Britain’s Got Talent ’ s Edward Reid providing a guest appearance at the dinner.
On top of this, the Millar Foundation is paying for the pupils of Townhead and St Bartholomew’s primaries to attend a Christmas pantomime in Glasgow, as well as sending all staff for a Christmas dinner at Mondo in Coatbridge.
These gifts were handed over to Fiona Gamson, head teacher at Townhead Primary, by Reverend Ecilo Selemani during a special ceremony in Townhead Church on Sunday.
Mark told the Advertiser: “We couldn’t wait until the new year to kick things off with the Foundation, so we started early!
“I can’t wait for these events now and we’ll be flitting between both to make sure they go well.
“I have amazing memories of both halls from either Scouts, family weddings or youth clubs.
“They are really well used, but we want to inject a lot of cash and energy and make them the hub of the fiveyear plan we have for the community.
“Christmas seems like the perfect place to start it.”
Despite his hectic work schedule which involves working with some of Hollywood’s biggest names, the philanthropist admitted his work with the Millar Foundation brings him just as much joy.
Mark added: “On one side of my desk I have two movies and two American TV shows we’re busy preparing, and on the other side I’m looking at sketches for the best playground my wife and I can buy next summer.
“The weird thing is I’m almost more excited about the Townhead plans than the Hollywood stuff.
“Los Angeles is mainly full of people I’ve never met, but Townhead is home to my friends and family.”
Both community events next Sunday are for over50s with tickets available on a first come, first served basis from both churches this Sunday following their morning services.