Fling and Duck Race 2020

Fling and Duck Race 2020

It seems incredible to think that in a normal year the Dunblane Fling would be taking place this Saturday, with, as its highlight, the Rotary Club’s Duck Race.  In preparation, ducks would have been carefully counted, and sales would have been made.  On the day, the marquee would have been erected, protective fencing put up and, at 1pm, the ducks would have been launched from the Faery Bridge into the Allan Water.  

Sadly, none of this will happen; but, of particularly significance, these efforts would normally result in a significant financial contribution to the Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).  Recognising this, and also recognising that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, CHAS, like other charities, is facing major financial difficulty, the Club decided to seek some means to remedy the loss of their regular contribution.  Given that members can no longer meet, other than in virtual meetings, and are not paying for the regular evening meal, it was thought that members might wish to contribute the saving that would accrue.  Responding to this, in true Rotary spirit, at Thursday’s virtual business meeting, Treasurer Steve Bassett reported that members had raised a total of £4,000.  This represents the proceeds that normally result from the Duck Race.  Reflecting on this, President Andrew Hilley thanked members for responding so quickly and so generously.

In a similar fashion, given that the Club’s annual Am-Am golf competition in July will also not take place, the Club is looking for means to compensate Strathcarron Hospice for the loss of its normal contribution.  It is hoped that an announcement about this can be made in the near future.  In the meantime, the Club learned that Strathcarron, like many organisations, was having difficulty in getting a supply of hand sanitisers.  Responding to this, Rotarian Audrey Cooper made contact with INEOS Grangemouth who, recognising the urgency of Strathcarron’s need, generously agreed to provide a free supply of the sanitiser.  INEOS delivers this in five litre containers to Falkirk Council which then decants the sanitiser into 500ml dispensing bottles before delivering to Strathcarron.

Both CHAS and Strathcarron are suffering from the current lockdown that has had a major detrimental affect on fund raising. They would be most grateful for any help that can be given.  Donations can be made on their websites. Strathcarron:  www. strathcarronhospice.net, and CHAS: www.chas.org.uk.