The community has rallied round a newly married couple left devastated after a thief stole honeymoon cash at their own wedding party.
Stephen and Sherree Sutherland were heartbroken after hundreds of pounds went missing from a handbag at the bash in their Bonhill home.
Friends and family were invited to the party on August 7 at their home in Pappert - which was held the day after they tied the knot at Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre.
The thief swiped every penny gifted by the couple’s loved ones and they thought they had no choice but to cancel their honeymoon.
But big-hearted friends organised an online crowdfunder to ensure they could have their special getaway.
Local singer Louise McFarlane, who performed at the wedding party with husband Des and daughter Natalie, set up the online appeal, which raised £250 in 24 hours.
She told how everyone had been having a great day partying in the garden before news of the shocking theft came to light.
Louise, who runs Singer Station School of Music in Alexandria, explained: “It was pouring from the heavens but one of the best days ever as everyone was up dancing and singing along.
“Sherree had put all her cards and wedding money in her bag and left it on top of her fridge.
“During the party someone stole every penny they had been given. They had enough to get away for a wee honeymoon.
“Sherree doesn’t know exactly how much there was in there but there would have been hundreds of pounds.
“Her gran gave her £150 and there was more money which had been put in cards. Later on they realised all the money had been stolen.
“They were devastated. I felt heartbroken for them. Everyone has suffered through this Covid period and they are a young family with three young kids.
“It left such a a bad feeling after such a wonderful day.”
The couple’s friends decided to club together to ensure their honeymoon wouldn’t be ruined.
Louise added: “We decided to turn a horrible situation into something positive.
“I was added to a chat by their close friend along with all the other girls who attended the wedding.
“We all chipped in to raise some of the money back.
“I suggested doing a crowdfunding page to see if the community would help them and we raised £250 in a day.
“People that the couple never knew wanted to help out as they were touched by their story.”
She told how Stephen and Sherree have been left overwhelmed by the kindness of the local community and wished to thank everyone for being so generous.
Louise added: “The money raised means they are able to enjoy a nice honeymoon break and get away for a few nights.
“I spoke to Stephen afterwards and he said they are absolutely blown away by the support.
“There are people who have donated who don’t know them and they are really overwhelmed by all the kindness shown.”
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