Caithness Heart Support Group - AGM And Tributes

15th June 2017

Photo Gallery

IN her valedictory address as Caithness Heart Support Group's patron, Anne Dunnett, paid tribute to the organisation's commitment, at their AGM, recently.

The Lord Lieutenant, retiring from public life, later this month, said she had "never seen such a dedicated bunch of fundraisers who care so much for people that need help" and added: "It is a great team they have here, and I have been honoured to have been a small part of it."

Miss Dunnett told an 'encouraging' turnout at the St Fergus Church Hall, that, thanks to advances in technology and good doctors and nurses, the chances of survival from heart attacks, had improved.

She said it was also down to "these people here, who raise so much money" for medical equipment for local hospitals and GP surgeries and added: "It never ceases to amaze me how such a small group can raise so much by way of funds. But there is always more required and I am sure they will continue their efforts."

In a summary of his annual report, the full version of which was circulated, chairman, Ernie Ross said it had been another busy year. Overall income was down, as were donations. However, these were outwith the group's control, so some fluctuation was to be expected.

Nevertheless, the cash at the group's disposal, enabled it to donate equipment to the hospitals and GP surgeries, to the tune of almost £4,300. A particularly satisfying aspect was that the total cost of each item of medical equipment purchased, didn't require match funding.

Mr Ross went on express his hard-working group's appreciation of the support it received from the public and their continued loyalty meant that the recipients were able to benefit from modern equipment they might otherwise never have received.

The chairman expressed the group's regret at losing Miss Dunnett's valuable support, over the past eight years, despite her demanding duties as Lord Lieutenant and her patronage of several other local organisations.
Mr Ross said:"You have done us proud Anne,in boosting our pubic profile and we are sorry to see you depart. There will be an opportunity, later, to thank you properly but in the meantime, will you all join with me in wishing her a long, happy and healthy retirement."

Submitting the audited financial report, treasurer, Emily Fraser, endorsed Mr Ross's appreciation of the public support it received, in what was a difficult economic climate.

She said:"In these hard times, there is no doubt it is becoming more and more difficult to fund raise as there are so many causes seeking support. We are very lucky in having such a loyal community who always step up and assist us."
Guest speaker for the evening was Dr Craig Lochhead from the Canisbay and Castletown
GP practice who delivered a thought-provoking, power-point, talk on blood pressure and the key to keeping it under control through a healthy lifestyle.

PHOTO
Retiring group patron, Anne Dunnet receives a gift from secretary Marge Donaldson.

See Photo Gallery link for more photos form the night.