PICTURES: Strictly fun was had at a huge fundraiser in Inverness in run up to charity dancing competition
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A FUNDRAISING extravaganza has finally taken place after being two years in the making.
Danny Murdoch, a participant for Strictly Inverness, staged the event at Inverness’s Kingsmills Hotel, where attendees received a three-course meal, raffle, auction and a welcome drink.
Despite last-minute changes to the event due to Covid, he raised just under £18,000.
Items such as a holiday home stay in Achmelvich Beach and Loch Ness were auctioned off and guests also got to enjoy star-studded performances from TFX Academy, who performed a jazz piece, and DJ Andy Belby.
Mr Murdoch (30) is a financial planner from Inverness, and wanted to take part in Strictly to help the Highland Hospice and Inverness Ice Centre.
“It’s a great opportunity to raise funds for a great cause in the Highland Hospice as well as getting fit learning something new,” he said. “It is something people have been putting me forward for since it began over 10 years ago but I have struggled to find the time as I previously played football and couldn’t commit but now that that failed career has come to an end, I thought I would start on my dancing one!”
Danny was one of the original performers from 2020 who had to postpone his challenge due to coronavirus restrictions.
He continued: “It’s good to finally be getting it done. It’s been hanging over me for such a long time and doing the fundraiser was a huge weight off my shoulders.
“I can start concentrating on the dancing now. I’m delighted to be finally getting to perform.”
Each Strictly contestant has to host fundraisers to help raise money ahead of the contest in May.
Coming up this Saturday is a casino night with music from The Shire at the Craigmonie Hotel. Guests can enjoy a range of card games, free bubbly and fancy dress.
To book tickets, contact Moira Ness on 07773811437.
Also on Saturday, contestant Gillian Cooper is hosting a Dillingers reunion in Sobar with games and raffles. Tickets can be bought from Gillian by donating £10 to https://tinyurl.com/2p8djafe
