Local food vendors, including the Muir Smokepit and Black Isle Dairy ice cream van, provided delicious treats. Talented local performers from the Melanie MacKay School of Dancing, Oliver Smith and Rod McKenzie kept everyone entertained while people were enjoying the tea and cake provided by a local church group.

In addition, several organisations that work in partnership with BIC, such as Highland Hospice, Raddery Trust, Cycling Without Age, Shop Mobility and Age Scotland, participated in the celebrations. Staff and volunteers were also on hand to share information about BIC services and the various volunteering opportunities available within the organisation. The event was a fantastic reminder of the strong community spirit that BIC has fostered over the past 10 years and will continue to cultivate in the years to come.

The event was opened by Lord Lieutenant of Ross & Cromarty, Joanie Whiteford, who was piped in by local piper Scott Rhynas. In a poignant speech acknowledging the achievements of BIC’s 10 years of service and its significant role in providing support to vulnerable people across the Black Isle, Mrs Whiteford said: “I am sure I can see a huge Heart hovering over the Fortrose area, with long arms enveloping all the communities and its residents, spreading not only love, but making a real and tangible difference to those living there.…. I see an enormous net binding all the many different services and activities carried out by the incredible Trustees and volunteers of Black Isle Cares,

Today we celebrate Black Isle Cares tenth anniversary, and how this wonderful group has morphed to cope with the changing needs of its services.

The Trustees never stand still, they are always looking at other ways to improve the lives of those living in the area, drawing in volunteers in enable them to function, attracting essential funds and looking to the future. I would like to say a huge Thank You to all Trustees and Volunteers who work so hard to provide such an incredible range of services and activities, and I look forward to celebrating with you again in another 5 years’ time.”

 

Anne MacDonald, chair of Black Isle Cares: “Black Isle Cares was delighted at the support and interest from the Black Isle community with more than 250 people joining us for our 10th Anniversary Fun Day on Saturday.  Even the sun came out in support as Lord Lieutenant Joannie Whiteford cut the ribbon to open the event. 
Tea, coffee and a delicious selection of home baking was on offer from The Scottish Episcopal Church, with entertainment from talented local musicians and dancers.  Fantastic to see volunteers and trustees past and present, many of whom have been involved throughout the last ten years.  Also our fabulous partners including Highland Hospice, Shopmobility Highland, Raddery House, and Age Scotland.  People of all ages enjoyed the varied activities, particularly the Cycling without Age Trishaw rides and the water slide supported by The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. 
A huge amount of work goes into putting on an event like this and we are extremely gratefully to our wonderful staff and volunteers.  Just from listening to the general buzz of conversation it was clearly effort well spent.  Hoping a few more volunteers come forward so we can do it all again – our AGM is in Fortrose Free Church at 7pm on Thursday 9th October, please join us if you would like to hear more about or be more involved in Black Isle Cares.”