A council-backed project has generated “a real buzz” for a new way of raising money for good causes, according to its chief executive.
Angus Council chief Richard Stiff spoke following the launch of a pilot project on the Crowdfunder website in Montrose, which will see four local causes vie for public cash.
A statue to AC/DC rocker Bon Scott, the community push for a fireworks display in Arbroath, a young girl’s dream to compete at the Paralympics, and a dementia-beating gardening scheme have been selected as the county’s first causes to benefit from the scheme.
Mr Stiff said: “Crowdfunding has the potential to help deliver many inspiring projects for the benefit of communities right across the county.
“The power of the crowd means that many small donations can soon add up to a funding target turning ideas into reality.
“There’s a real buzz and excitement from everyone here today and we’re looking forward to supporting projects from Angus residents, businesses or community groups.”
The Fireworks for Arbroath group has come a long way since it began fundraising in February.
Local activist Karen Cuthill took it upon herself to get a fireworks display back in Arbroath.
A spokesman said: “We started with just one passionate woman and a lot of disgruntled people on social media.
“Historically in Arbroath people have been known to be very generous.
“We really hope that people will get behind us.”
DD8 Music in Kirriemuir has been campaigning and raising money for a statue to former AC/DC singer Bon Scott since 2012.
A spokesman said: “So far, with the help of the international AC/DC fan base, we have raised £33,000 of the £45,000 total we need.
“We are now looking to make a final push and raise the £12,000 needed to complete the statue.”
The Memory Box Network will allow gardening graduates to teach volunteers how to help families of people with dementia, in their own gardens.
T54-classified wheelchair racer Murran Mackay from Kirriemuir was born with spina bifida and is paralysed from the waist down.
The 13-year-old is the only participant in her field on the east coast and she dreams of participating in next year’s London mini-marathon on her way to Tokyo 2020 but needs money for spare tyres and equipment for her special racing chair.
Photo by Angus Pictures