Huntly Macmillan's incredible 50-year and £500,000 journey
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HUNTLY'S Macmillan group is gearing up to celebrate a key anniversary – and the six-figure sum it has raised throughout its history.
Marking its 50th anniversary year, the committee has raised a total of £478,723.67 since it was formed in 1973, said chairperson Margo Stewart.
Huntly Macmillan is set to host an informal dinner this weekend to celebrate the incredible milestone.
Formed by a "few like-minded local people" in 1973, the group set out to raise funds for Macmillan's services for those living with cancer.
Describing the amount raised as "phenomenal", Ms Stewart said: "Such generosity must be recognised and applauded, and we are so grateful for continuing local support."
Money raised for Macmillan by the Huntly committee, which has 15 members along with a host of volunteer "friends", is returned for use in north-east Scotland, she added.
And a portion is ring-fenced for people in the AB54 postcode to claim, mainly through grants, following a cancer diagnosis.
"Over the years this Committee has seen many changes of faces, all of whom made a valuable contribution to it in their own way," said Ms Stewart.
"Thanks must be given to them all for ensuring continued fundraising through five decades."
The celebration dinner to mark the anniversary is planned for Saturday, November 11 at The Bank Restaurant, Huntly.
Ms Stewart said: "Anyone interested is welcome to join current and past Committee members and friends – a few places are still available."
Those interested in joining the dinner can email: kstewart.sons@btconnect.com or click here to visit Huntly Macmillan's Facebook page.
Macmillan was founded in 1912 by Douglas Macmillan, originally called The National Society for the Prevention and Relief of Cancer.
In more recent years the name changed again to Macmillan Cancer Support to more accurately reflect the wide-ranging services offered to cancer sufferers and their families on their cancer journey.
Huntly Macmillan's next fundraising event will be the usual November Coffee and Buttery morning on Saturday, November 18 in The Stewart's Hall.
