PICTURES: Community spirits abound at Highland Hospice Halloween event in Thurso
Thurso’s Highland Hospice staff once again proved why they are a big hit in the local community with a special Halloween event on Saturday.
The charity shop recently became the Scottish winner in the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards and, true to form, went over and above to welcome its customers for a day of festivities at its High Street premises.
Manager Susan Imlach said: “It’s something for the kids and the community to celebrate Halloween.
“All the kids get a wee sweetie, presents, a goodie bag before they leave and they get to play games. It’s something for them to do on a Saturday.”
Throughout the shop there were many staff dressed up in spooky costumes along with one pirate, a superhero and a Viking warrior.
At the back of the shop is an area that is commonly called ‘the garage’ and for the day it was transformed into a fun area with games and scary decorations including skulls, spiders’ webs, goblins and lots of witchy paraphernalia. There was also face painting which was a big hit with the youngest children.
“I think it was offices in here and part of the Social Work Department but today we’re calling this area ‘the cave’. A lot of staff come together when we have an event. Some do baking and some make pumpkins. Everybody comes together to make it a great day.”
The shop is always filled with music from bygone eras but, to fit the occasion, the Highland Hospice jukebox was playing scary songs such as Ghostbusters and other Halloween hits.
“It’s all about raising funds for the Highland Hospice and at the same time giving something back to the community,” added Susan.
“We are extremely busy on a daily basis with donations and customers. The support of customers is vital to raise funds for Highland Hospice and today is extra busy because we’re holding a Halloween event.”
With many ghostly spirits drifting around the shop, it was fitting that “community spirit” was brought up by manager Susan as the main drive of the special day.
“It’s all about community spirit but at the same time we’re raising funds for Highland Hospice and so everybody is a winner.”
Susan said the shop’s first official Halloween event was a great success. She was delighted with the big turnout on the day as well as all the involvement from local businesses and individuals with donations such as apples, sweets and hot dogs.
Declan McPhee from the Chippy Van was happy to help out on the day as well as Nanny’s Fruit and Veg from Wick and the local Tesco store. Jean Seddon provided the hot dog stand, hot dogs and rolls, and the candyfloss machine.
“They’re all very kind and are helping raise vital funds for Highland Hospice,” Susan added.
Highland Hospice will be receiving its award for being Scotland’s favourite charity shop in November.
