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Street sweeper's generosity brings joy to children in Inverness


By Louise Glen

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Martin Macdougall is giving away colouring books to help keep children occupied. Picture: Callum Mackay.
Martin Macdougall is giving away colouring books to help keep children occupied. Picture: Callum Mackay.

A STREET sweeper has used his own holiday savings to try and help keep children happy during the coronavirus lockdown.

Martin Macdougall (54), from Merkinch, decided to help out parents who were struggling by offering deliveries of free books, pens and craft materials.

Mr Macdougall, who works for Highland Council, said: “I have two great nephews, and to think of them stuck at home was getting to me. I saw other friends on Facebook talking about the fact they can’t get out the house.

“I’ve delivered books to 239 kids so far and a box of books to the children’s ward in Raigmore Hospital as well.”

When news spread about Mr Macdougall’s generous act he was inundated with requests for help.

He was given money by local group, South Kessock Residents Association, to purchase more materials while others donated books for distribution.

As he does not drive Mr MacDougall uses his bike to make most of the deliveries.

“I have even posted some out to people who are not from Inverness,” he said.

“The feedback from people is amazing. I have had a few gifts left at the door and one young boy even drew me a picture. Everyone has been fantastic, and it is sometimes emotional because the books are putting smiles on kids faces.”

Mr Macdougall can be contacted via his own Facebook page.

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