May Ball sees thousands handed out to local charities

Representatives of the charities across St Andrews and the East Neuk – from theatre groups to sports clubs – gathered at the Old Course Hotel on Wednesday night for the culmination of all the efforts from the St Andrews May Ball held earlier in the year.

The May Ball took up the mantle of the Midsummer Ball, which had run in St Andrews since 2008, established by David Goadby to round up a fundraising effort for Childline Scotland to £10,000.

After the success of the first ball, it became a fixture on the social calendar, but took a rest last year to return as the May Ball this year.

Among more than 30 recipients was the Byre Youth Theatre, whose artistic director, Ashley Foster, welcomed the donation, adding: “Funding from local sources really helps us to provide our students with far more opportunities to develop their skills and perform. Towards the end of the current academic year, we are aiming to produce a triple-bill of performances that will include the students of our three 8-11 year-old classes and the money received from the Ball will help towards our production costs.”

Also benefiting from a donation was the Tayside Children with Cancer and Leukaemia (TCCL).

TCCL lodge manager Elizabeth Logan, expressed the charity’s gratitude for the cash boost.

“All of us at TCCL are more grateful for this donation from the St Andrews May Ball and would like to extend our thanks to all who supported the event,” she said. “The money will go towards some more outdoor play equipment at the TCCL Lodge in St Andrews where families with children suffering from cancer and leukaemia can go for a much needed holiday.”

As well providing sick youngsters with a chance to travel the globe, the donations will go towards charities that teach young people about the dangers of the online world.

Diane Sangster, of the Cosmos Community Centre After School and Holiday Club, said: “We are delighted to receive funds from the St Andrews May Ball which will be used to integrate youngsters with additional support needs, give the children some wonderful outings throughout the year and teach them how to stay safe while using the internet.

“Our thanks go to everyone involved in the organisation of the ball, as well as the generosity of all those who attended.”

Catriona Harris, of the Strathkinness Playgroup, said: “We are extremely grateful for these funds which will allow us to continue providing local pre-school children with a fun, friendly environment to learn and play, and to continue supporting the role of our dedicated playleader, as well as organising activities.”