Buy a meal for those that heal, says Lybster hotel owner
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THE owner of a Caithness hotel is looking for donations towards a slap-up meal for healthcare professionals when lockdown restrictions are lifted.
Steven Swan, proprietor of the refurbished Portland Hotel, wants to honour those he calls the true heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic – "doctors and nurses along with hospital and healthcare workers of every description".
He said: "We're pretty sure that when you clap for them on a Thursday night, you wish there was something more that you could do to thank them.
"Well, now you can – by giving them something to look forward to when it's all over."
Mr Swan says that when the lockdown restrictions are lifted he will "lay on a slap-up meal with entertainment for all the amazing local Caithness healthcare professionals".
With that aim in mind, he is looking for donations towards the costs.
"We hope to raise enough to cover a meal, a welcome drink and maybe a glass of wine to enjoy with their meal, entertainment and transport to pick up and drop off at various points," he said.
"No matter how much or how little you wish to donate or can afford, all donations will be gladly welcomed."
He said he is more than happy to accept donations of produce "from the butcher, baker or candlestick maker".
Mr Swan pointed out that bus firm Stagecoach had already offered three coaches and drivers and that if enough money is raised it will hopefully cover 12 tables of 10 people.
The public can donate large or small amounts, he added, and businesses could perhaps sponsor and pay for a table.
"Donations of produce, meat, fish, fruit, veg and suchlike are welcome and any money left over will be used for the benefit of the staff at Caithness General Hospital.
"This will be done by us on a non-profit basis with 100 per cent of all funds raised going towards the evening – or evenings, if more than one is required."
To find out how to donate, message the Portland Hotel on its Facebook page or call it on 01593 721348.