Lerwick Lifeboat nets donation after winter grotto

A CHEQUE for £1,620 has been handed to the Lerwick Lifeboat Ladies Guild on behalf of town centre businesses following a ‘Winter Wonderland Grotto’ last month.

Linda Simpson and Rhoda Watt accepted the cheque on the Lifeboat pier this morning (Wednesday).

The money £1,620 was raised through the Living Lerwick grotto, which gave local bairns a chance to have a “fun Christmas experience while adhering to social distancing and safety guidelines”.

Families were given a 15 minute slot in a specially decorated shop space to receive a present and meet town centre mascot, Maunsie, and his friend Olaf the snowman.

Nearly 200 presents from Harry’s were given out over three weekends.

Living Lerwick director Stewart Jamieson, from Harry’s, commented, “We are always delighted to be involved with the town centre Grotto event in December.

“As with everything, it was done a little differently this time, but we had excellent feedback from those who came along and enjoyed their winter wonderland experience.

“It’s been a difficult year for fundraising, so Living Lerwick are thankful to be able to present this cheque to the local Lifeboat station on behalf of town centre businesses and those who bought tickets.

“The town centre was a busy and lively place in the lead up to Christmas and I’d like to thank the Shetland public for supporting local businesses.

“We are still open for trading and we take the safety of our staff and customers very seriously, so would remind people coming into town that following the hygiene rules keeps us all safe and well.”