River Kids mark end of successful fundraising year in West Lothian

Dec 31 2008 by Alistair Watson, West Lothian Courier

CHILDREN’S charity River Kids has had a busy year fundraising in West Lothian.

In January and February supporters of the charity held ghost events and sleepovers in haunted venues to raise money.

Also in February the charity’s website went live in the county.

River Kids would like to thank Glennis Gibson at the Virtual Eye for not only producing the web site but also for keeping it up to date with all the news and events which are taking place.

May saw the River Kids annual golf day and this year the team from Centrex House won.

Next year’s event is already planned and will take place for May 8 and people interested in taking part in the event can book teams in from January.

This year, the charity bought a special bike for a local child to help with his balance and co-ordination.

In June five workers from ASDA skydived to raise almost £2000 for the charity.

River Kids held its first bowling event in September and this was a fun night out with support from Deer Park and local companies who came along and joined in.

In October River Kids held its first ladies night, which was a great success. The charity intends to hold more of these as they are a great way of having lots of fun and raising money for local children at the same time.

Nearly £1000 was raised on the night and thanks must go to Lesley Baird who organised the event.Š Also in October the charity was presented with £410 from the Federation of small business which they had raised at their annual dinner.

The River Kids Christmas party was held in November at Deer Park.Š Over £1600 was raised on the night and thanks must go to Deer Park Golf and Country Club for the help and support with the event.

Looking ahead to 2009 River Kids coordinator Wendy Simpson said: “We hope to build on the relationships we have in place. The Bank of Scotland, National Health and Safety Company, the Lothian Business club, Wyman Gordon, the West Lothian Courier and Livingston Designer outlet are a few of the companies that have supported us over the last twelve months and our grateful thanks go to them for their support.

“We are already planning the golf day which is on May 8 and we are hoping to use Club Earth for a 70’s night.

“Myself and Jim Wallace will be running in the West Lothian Run in May and Christmas 2009 is already being planned.Š “Please check our website for full details of our events and our supporters.ŠWe wish all our supporters a very happy New Year.

CHARITY: River Kids' Wendy Simpson is presented with a cheque by the Federation of small business which raised at their annual dinner.