Generous Doonhamers have rallied around a community group after it was the targeted by thieves.
A van belonging to the Dumfries Veterans Garden, which is based at the Crichton Estate, was broken into on Boxing Day with tools and clothing stolen.
However kind-hearted locals have now supported the group with new tools to replace the items taken. And an online fundraiser has almost smashed its target.
Project co-ordinator Mark Harper said: “The van was parked up and on Boxing Day I went to the van and noticed the parcel shelf was touching the window.
“It wasn’t until we started looking through that it hit me that things were gone. A fleece, waterproof jacket, then you notice tools and sockets are gone. It’s disappointing.
“But the whole Dumfries community has been great with us.
“Since we posted about it, it’s been shared a lot. I think all of Scotland knows about the theft.
“But the community of Dumfries has been extremely generous with us. People have started bringing us their spares tools to use which is great.
“And a few fundraisers are on the go too which is great to see.”
One of those fundraisers was set up by Claire McMonies. She and her partner, Alan Walker, have just recently started visiting and using the service. After 24 hours the fundraiser had already hit £400.
Claire, 38, said: “It’s such a poor thing that’s happened.
“I thought I would start a fundraiser to allow them to buy some new tools. We’ve been amazed by the response.
“The guys have been excellent with us since we started going. Mark and the guys have been so helpful despite us only meeting them a handful of times. Hopefully we can hand over a great amount of money to them.”
Claire’s link is live for donations until January 10 and can be found by going to Claire’s Facebook page or following the link www.facebook.com/ donate/32871900880 70390/10157584676296861/.
Dumfries Veterans Garden also has a JustGiving page. It can be found at www.justgiving.com/veteransgardendumfries.
