RGU student event raises funds for Erskine Veterans charity
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The Barn at Barra Castle near Oldmeldrum was bursting with activities on Sunday, writes Griselda McGregor.
A Fine Fair of stalls and stands in aid of Erskine Veterans catered for many tastes - eatables, drinkables, arts and crafts to name a few.
The 16th century tower of Barra is the family home of David and Sarah Stephen and their adjoining converted barn lends itself to a variety of occasions.
Sunday's event was organised by final year students studying events management at RGU's School of Creative and Cultural Business.
A trio, Lexy Graham, Catriona Stephenson and Sophie Malinowski formed the welcoming committee for visitors at the barn door while final year student Jo Gillespie had the task of guiding round a very friendly mascot Arasgain, that's Gaelic for Erskine bear.
The rest of the event team Maryam Shahid and Anna Paver were running the raffle, taking photos and additional volunteers manned the refreshment stand and car park.
Lexy Graham said: “They really were invaluable and we couldn't have run the fair as smoothly without our seven brilliant volunteers. I truly cannot thank them enough.”
She said the event raised £8250 for Erskine Veterans.
Both of the workshops sold out. The morning session was on calligraphy with Donia Rae and the afternoon session focused on how charcuterie and how to make the perfect platter hosted by local family business, Platter, run by Ashleigh Forbes.
Donia Rae said of calligraphy: "It appeals to all ages but especially for people who have got out of the habit of writing nicely - and legibly."
She recently taught a class of 12 year-olds who chose fine writing as a birthday party treat.
Sunday's students were using the good old-fashioned nib pens and ink-wells but Donia explained: "You can do calligraphy with any sort of tool, pencils, fountain pens and ball point pens included."
Michael Parkes, development manager for Eskine Vetetans north, was delighted with the day’s attendance.
From Buckie, he is particularly involved with a new venture, an Erskine Veterans project in Forres.
He said: “A huge thank you to Event Makers Co for their incredible achievements at A Fine Fair.
“To raise more than £8000, with over 600 visitors on the day is just phenomenal.
“The team exceeded all expectations and should be so proud of their work.
“They have been a credit to themselves, RGU and Erskine Veterans charity from day one.
“All funds raised at A Fine Fair will go towards the new Erskine Veterans Activity Centre in Forres, which we plan to open in 2024.
“The centre aims to meet a huge unmet need for veterans in the area, enhance their quality of life and wellbeing, provide the opportunity to engage with people who have shared experiences and history, learn new skills, explore a number of interests and access support services.”
The students said: "We are so overwhelmed by the incredible support from the vendors, local businesses, sponsors and the public, and can't believe what an amazing turn out we had.
“Our vendors, sponsors, donors and volunteers have all been incredible. Our lecturers at the School of Creative and Cultural Business have also been absolutely amazing and have made studying events management so enjoyable.
“The practical experience we have gained from organising A Fine Fair is invaluable".
Vendors were impressed with the student team as well stating that it was an impressive turn out compared to other markets, particularly in the current economic climate, and that the event was extremely well organised and an enjoyable day for all.
