Fairytale Trail will raise autism cash
Favourite characters on streets of Stirling
A charity fundraising event is set to bring some magic to the streets of Stirling on Sunday.
More than 100 walkers have signed up for a sponsored Fairytale Trail organised by Stirling gift shop Tinkerbells Emporium.
The 2km trail will feature favourite fairytale and story characters such as the Three Bears, Gruffalo, Pinocchio, The Gingerbread Man, Rapunzel and more.
Store owner Lisa Davidson is hoping the event will raise funds and awareness of the National Autistic Society.
She said: “My fundraising partner and I have put in more than 80 painting hours between the two of us doing the characters. We really want it to be a success - and to hopefully repeat it again next year.
“We have over 100 walkers signed up so it is looking to be quite the event. We have fun events on Friars Street from 11am with the trail starting at 1pm from the Albert Halls to Kings Park.
“The entry is free with a minimum sponsorship of £20 and all the money is going to the National Autistic Society.
“My best friend and partner in fundraising’s daughter Jada has autism and we have loads more events planned for the next 18 months to raise hopefully a total of £10,000 by the time we reach our goal of climbing Machu Picchu in September 2023 for the charity.”
Since opening in 2016 Friars Street shop Tinkerbells Emporium has become the “go-to-place” for anyone looking for a “gift with a difference” selling everything magical, delightful, mysterious and unique.
As well as stocking a host of fairy and magic-inspired items, individual and whimsical gifts, Lisa hopes visitors will experience the sense of fun and inspiration which she enjoys daily in the shop, a little treasure trove which is her own bespoke design.
Tinkerbells won Best Gift Shop in Scotland at the recent Scotland’s Business Awards.
“I was totally overwhelmed,” said Lisa. “It’s just so lovely to be recognised when you are an independent small business.
“Covid taught many people many things but I realised how much everyone loves and needs magic - from children right through to grown-ups - and if I can give anyone just a little bit of happiness and bring a smile to a wee one’s face then I’m all in every day. That’s why I do what I do.”
Today is the closing date for entries for the trail as personalised finishers’ bags are being prepared.
However, anyone entering after today can still take part with a donation on the day which will also go to the National Autistic Society.
There will be a gift for everyone that completes the trail and participants will also be entered into a raffle for a chance to win some magical prizes. Fairytale costume “is encouraged” for those taking part.
Lisa added: “We are looking for two very kind adults to donate an hour of their time on Sunday from 1-2pm maximum to help everyone across one small road. High visibility waistcoasts will be provided - fairy wings optional!”
Donations can also be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ lisaandlaurafriarsst
I realised how much everyone loves and needs magic - from children through to grown-ups Lisa Davidson