Stirling Highland Games event organiser, Matt McGrandles announces that along with their annual commitment to support Ceangail CIC, a local training provider for young people, they are also looking to provide a donation to a local charity, Stirling Young Carers.
“Being part of the community we operate within is important to me,” Matt explained. “So, as well as our ongoing links with Ceangail CIC I was keen to see if we could support another local Third Sector organisation. There are many good causes within the area however I felt that by linking in with our Host Ambassador, The Provost of Stirling’s chosen charity we could add some awareness for the chosen organisation.”
Provost Robbins added, “Stirling Young Carers are our hidden heroes. Day in, day out for year after year they quietly and compassionately care for their relatives, often in challenging circumstances. Their efforts not only ensure the safety and well-being of their loved ones, they also save the state billions of pounds every year. I am delighted that the Stirling Highland Games team have provided this platform that will raise awareness of their efforts. ”
Unlike many other highland games in Scotland that choose to provide a fairground attraction for younger visitors, Stirling will be unique in looking to provide an Activity Challenge area. Along with Active Stirling, their Principle Partner of the activity challenge area, any donations collected on the day will be presented to the Stirling Young Carers charity.
Matt said, “We are just trying to provide something different for our younger audience. Whilst mum and dad are enjoying their delicious handmade wrap or pulled pork sandwich the kids can take on one of the challenges and have a go. If parents wish to leave a donation then it will be up to them. I think Stirling Young Carers provide a great service and I hope we can raise some funds for them on the 20th of August.”
Charlene O’Neill, Young Carers Service Manager, said: “We are delighted that Stirling Highland Games has chosen to support Stirling Young Carers Service at this year’s Highland Games. It is reported that one in ten young people have caring responsibilities in Scotland so the support from the event will ensure that we are recognised locally. It will also help to make a huge difference in raising the profile and increasing the identification of ‘hidden young carers’ in Stirling.”
You may of course find yourself stuck in the Activity Challenge area for a while as some of the activities planned include a mini highland games, test your passing skills with Glasgow Warriors and Rugby Tots, try for a hole in one on the putting green, ride Recyke-a-Bike’s mobile trail or test your speed through the Army’s assault course.
Chief Executive, Andrew Bain added, “Active Stirling is delighted to support this aspect of Stirling Highland Games. We hope the attraction will prove a huge hit with visiting families and are sure that there will be something to entertain everyone. It’s just another great reason for people to come and be part of Stirling Highland Games.”
This year Stirling Highland Games is on Saturday 20th August with gates opening from 10:30. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gates on the day.
Photo Details: Andrew Bain, Chief Executive of Active Stirling :: Zoe Taylor, YC Officer :: Colleen McAteer, YC Officer :: Charlene O’Neill, Young Carers Service Manager at Stirling Carers :: Mike Robbins, Provost of Stirling :: Molly Feinmann, YC Officer :: Matt McGrandles, Stirling Highland Games President.