Around 100 people sleep in Ayr park and raise £27,000 for vital charity

A charity group that supports those recovering from addiction issues managed to raise nearly £27,000 from Friday night’s fundraising sleep out at Dam Park.

Harbour Ayrshire, based in Ayr’s Miller Road, initially set a target of £5000 for their charity event at the weekend.

Before Friday’s fundraiser took place, the group surpassed their fundraising target.

And by Monday afternoon, almost £27k was raised - thanks to additional pledges from individuals, the community and business groups.

Around 100 people gathered at Dam Park on Friday to take part in the sleep out and the money raised will go towards Harbour Ayrshire’s important work in helping those with addiction issues.

Clive Kennedy, founder and major funder at Harbour Ayrshire, said: “The event was flawless and we are standing at nearly at £27,000 raised.

“The Ayrshire Bulls turned up and did a wee demo, then we had Harbour Olympics, which was hilarious, followed by a game of rounders, then a balloon release - where people wrote a wee message to someone they’d lost.

“The night was great and the feedback has been amazing.

“Our plan is to establish a Harbour Ayrshire residential unit in Ayrshire, which would be designed to focus on the ones who are really struggling. If we can do that then it will make a big impact on our local communities.”

Supporting the sleepover was Ayr United FC, Ayr Cricket Club and Ayr Rugby Club. On the night representatives from each club took part.

Also supporting the group was Tempura Cafe/Bar/2go, Static World, The Designer Rooms, AB Sundecks Ltd, The Venice Cafe, Taylor Manning Hair Salon and HMP Addiewell.

Clive said: “The great thing is, we are starting to engage with some really influential business people in Ayrshire; they have reached out to us and are enthusiastic about working with us. They are very keen to start supporting us, so it’s been a great event in every aspect.”

It is hoped that the group can eventually reach the magical milestone of £30,000 in donations and there is still time to donate.

To help boost the coffers go to https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/harboursleepout

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