It got messy in Blackridge when locals organised a charity fundraiser with a difference.
Natalie McCrimmon wanted to raise money for mental health charity, Mind and so held a ‘gunge walk’ around the village, inspired by the charity’s Messy4Mind events.
This saw Natalie, daughter Talia and Blackridge gala committee member Barry Denholm getting covered in goo, baked beans and other unpleasant stuff, which was thrown at them by people who had lined the streets to cheer them on.
Natalie, who cheered up the village by pounding the streets dressed as a minion at the start of lockdown, explained: “It was extremely messy but all worth it as we raised £357 altogether.
“Since we have no gala day this year unfortunately, I thought about doing something fun and raise money for messy4mind.
“We walked the streets of Blackridge and asked people throw pies, gunge, milk, custard, beans or anything from the food cupboard.
“The idea behind the challenge is that mental health and depression are called invisible illnesses, but by getting messy we show that the illness exists.”
Natalie continued: “The event went absolutely amazing, my daughter Talia and Blackridge gala committee member Barry Denholm all took part.
“We also Adele Currie dress up as cute unicorn mascot to carry our charity bucket.
“It was What a fantastic day.
“A huge thank you to Alana Campbell and her husband, who own Westrigg Electricals for helping to and out goodie bags to the children and for donating lots of stuff for them.
“I also want to thank Shuggie Naismith for leading us on our messy journey and everyone who joined in and who kindly put donations in our charity bucket.”
