Inverness business owner thanks community for ‘wrapping arms around him’ after break-in
An Inverness business owner has expressed heartfelt thanks to the local community for wrapping its arms around him following a break-in.
James MacDonald, of Bloom at Bellfield, said he was sick to the stomach when he discovered the break-in at Bellfield Park’s kiosk - just two months after taking over the business which also includes the paddling pool.
But his initial reactions of anger and sadness have now moved to hope and enthusiasm following messages of support and offers of help to get going again.
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“First and foremost, I need to thank the local community,” said Mr MacDonald who intends to reopen the kiosk.
“They have really wrapped their arms around me and in a way have protected me.
“When I thought I was on my knees, they have helped me back up.”
The break-in, which was discovered on Monday morning, has resulted in the closure of the business.
Goods and equipment, including an ipad, sound system and stock, were stolen and there was also extensive damage.
“When I saw the damage with my own eyes, the only way I could describe it is disappointed and sick to my stomach - and asking why?” Mr MacDonald reflected.
“They have taken my float and ipad and juice, ice cream and drinks.
“Unless they were in need of a sugar rush, I just don’t get it.
“If that person was in front of me, I would ask ‘What is the point?’.”
When he and his father took over the operation this summer, they had decided everything would go back into the facility for the first two years.
But the break-in has represented a big setback and loss of earnings.
As people have become aware of the break-in, many have posted messages of support on social media while tradespeople such as joiners, plumbers, electricians and alarm specialists have been in contact to offer support and help to get him going again.
“I was genuinely thinking if it was worth it for me to keep going,” Mr MacDonald said.
“It has knocked my confidence.
“But just this amount of outpouring of well wishes and support and offers of help has turned me around.
“I didn’t foresee such support from the the community and it just goes to show the power and strength of the community at the park.
“It is a local hub of Inverness.”
Although he intends to reopen, he is unable to give a timescale and it will be dependent on the kiosk, which is leased from Highland Council, being made secure.
There is also the inconvenience caused by the theft of the ipad which will mean starting all over again as if it was day one.
“I will open as soon as I can but only when I am happy with the security and safety of the kiosk and of myself and my father,” he said.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said inquiries were ongoing.
