Celtic strip auction

BACK TO THE FUTURE FOR ISLAND PARK

Iain Ferguson Proposals are under way to return Kinlochleven’s Island Park to its former glory as a sports and social hub for the whole community...and to start the fundraising effort the group established to achieve this is auctioning a Celtic strip signed by the entire 2019/20 team.

The Island Park Community Field Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) has been formed to liaise with landowners Jahama, seek funding and co-ordinate efforts to launch and progress restoration efforts.

Located next to the bowling club on the Glencoe side of the village, the field boasts spectacular views of the hills and Loch Leven landscape. It was created by the original British Aluminium Company for its employees and for decades has been the venue for sports, gala days and numerous events, even featuring guest appearances by world famous athletes.

However, it has lain largely unused for some time and even recently installed fullsized goalposts haven’t seen any games. Grass cutting has now been arranged and the SCIO hopes to obtain its own equipment for on-going maintenance.

Chairman Matthew Prosser said: ‘The field has a great history and I believe a restored and well-maintained park would have a great future.

‘A range of sports could be catered for and coaching courses could help encourage people to take part in outdoor activities. It could also be the focus for things such as gala days and other village activities. The possibilities are endless.’

Jahama Highland Estates Chief Operating Officer Julia Stoddart said: ‘The formation of the SCIO is a fantastic development for community enterprise in Kinlochleven and we are proud to support it.

‘We are committed to supporting sustainable community endeavours across our landholding and enjoy working with a range

of community bodies and stakeholders to help take forward development plans that generate social, economic and environmental benefits for a thriving future in this part of the Highlands.’ While the SCIO will be applying for grants from various charitable bodies, local fund raising will be undertaken, such as the auction of the Celtic strip donated by the team captain Scott Brown who personally asked fellow team members to sign their names on his shirt.

The auction is under way, with bids of several hundred pounds already placed. The winner will be announced at a planned Rangers v Celtic supporters match. Due to Covid restrictions, a date for this has yet to be arranged, so there is plenty time to register your bid at islandparkscio@outlook.com