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Nairn splash pad created in memory of local youngster Hamish Hey is switched on for the first time


By Donald Wilson

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The splash pad is a bright new addition to the seafront at Nairn.
The splash pad is a bright new addition to the seafront at Nairn.

The splash pad at the Nairn Links replaces a paddling pool which had been a feature of the seafront at Nairn since the 1950s.

The project has been funded by the Team Hamish Appeal.

Hamish Hey died of cancer aged eight in 2016.

Tragically his mum Susan was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer in 2017.

Despite this she continued to work tirelessly with her husband Sam, daughter Lily, other family members and the local community to raise thousands of pounds for the memorial to Hamish.

She died last year at the age of 41, just before the splash pad was completed.

Following its switch-on yesterday Susan's mum, Liz Bow, said: "We are all absolutely delighted it’s open, a wonderful legacy for Hamish and Susan – four years of fundraising and we are indebted to the continuing support from the community and beyond.

"This marks the completion of phase one of the Links Development and more funding from Team Hamish will be invested in the area where Hamish and Susan spent many happy times with Sam and Lily."

The project was funded by Team Hamish and the Nairn Common Good fund.
The project was funded by Team Hamish and the Nairn Common Good fund.

She added: "The kids are going to have a ball, particularly in nice weather. It'll be on from 10 in morning until 6 at night. Kids just loved playing in water."

In total £110,000 of the total cost of the project came from Team Hamish, with the balance met by the Nairn Common Good Fund. The project was carried out in collaboration with Highland Council which will oversee maintenance of the splash pad.

A balance of £60,000 remains in the Team Hamish appeal for further investment.

It has been created in memory of Hamish Hey.
It has been created in memory of Hamish Hey.

Local councillor Tom Heggie said: "With Covid restrictions it was thought best not to have a large gathering at this time. But when circumstances permit a formal opening ceremony will take place.

"There have already been children using the splashpad despite the chilly weather. One wee lad even turned up in his wellie boots and had great fun."

John Bochel, owner of the Strathnairn Café which sits beside the new splash pad said: "It's a tremendous addition to the facilities at the Nairn seafront and is going to bring a lot of pleasure to families visiting the beach."


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