Members of a Garelochhead veterans charity enjoyed festivities as they celebrated their fifth birthday with their “fabulous team of volunteers”.
The Garelochhead Station Trust’s trustees and volunteers - alongside helpers from the police and Royal Navy - held a party in the group’s hub in Centre 81 on Tuesday, July 18 to mark the anniversary.
Partygoers ate brunch prepared by the hall’s kitchen staff, treated themselves to special cupcakes and party bags, and took part in a raffle to raise cash for the group.
Project assistant Melody Grayson said: “The celebrations began with the hall and tables decorated with balloons, banners and confetti in preparation for the arrival of our members.
“Our wonderful A-team in the kitchen prepared a delicious brunch and our trustees who organise the raffle put together a beautiful display of prizes for members to win.
“We are so lucky to have a fabulous team of volunteers that worked their socks off to make the day run smoothly and are truly blessed to be supported so fantastically and regularly by the amazing Royal Navy serving personnel who come along almost every fortnight to help in any way they can.”
The trust also wanted to thank the Ministry of Defence [MOD] police who have been helping tidy and clean at the trust alongside the Royal Navy.
Members were lauded for their dedication and support over the years.
Melody added: “From chatting with our members, to washing dishes and helping clear up, the lovely serving MOD Police have recently joined us as well and we hope they become regulars alongside the RN.
“All of this support is appreciated beyond expression and these occasions wouldn't be able to go ahead without each and every one of you, so from the bottom of our hearts thank you.
“And finally, thanks must go to our members for always attending, supporting and making running the trust for you – it’s such a pleasure.”
The charity began as a small veterans group running from Gibson Hall in Garelochhead but as it grew over time the trust expanded to include families of former military personnel and the wider community.
The group’s growth saw them have to relocate to Centre 81 to accommodate increasing numbers of members.
Offering support, assistance, and providing a safe space for people in need, the trust also functions as a social space.
Line dancing is held on Tuesdays, carpet bowls on Thursdays, the brunch club is hosted fortnightly on Tuesdays, craft group is held on Tuesdays and a model making group on Thursdays.
The trust also runs bi-monthly outings to various places and sites of interest.
Those who are interested in becoming a member of the trust, a volunteer, or donating a prize to future fundraising raffles should email Melody via melody.grayson.75@outlook.com
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