By Leeza Clark

AN ALVA woman’s legacy is set to bring joy to local youngsters.

Margaret Gordon, a mother of four, died suddenly last May after suffering a stroke, devastating her husband John.

The couple had been married for 38 years, and had known each other since they were 16-year-olds.

Now John and two of his late wife’s friends have set up an art and craft award in her memory.

This year, primary one and two pupils from Hillfoots primary schools will be offered the chance to earn awards from the trust.

Pupils will be invited to design the months of a calendar with the help of local artists.

Two winning designs from each participating school will be printed, while an overall winner will receive an engraved trophy.

John, who lives in Alva, said that his late wife had suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, which meant she had problems with her hands and joints, but that she was a fine artist and craftswoman and soldiered on because she loved it.

“I think this award scheme is a fitting tribute to Margaret, who particularly enjoyed making greetings cards.

“She also loved spending time doing arts and crafts with our grandchildren.

“Just think, we might even uncover some untapped artistic talent amongst the area’s youngsters,” he added.

Clackmannanshire Council’s creative links officer Kathleen O’Neill has helped John to set up the trust—with John and Margaret’s friends Karen Crow and Mary Greasley as directors—and a logo has been created.

Already the trust’s funds stand at over £600 from word of mouth donations alone and plans are being made for its first fund-raising concert which will be held on Saturday, February 4, in Devonvale Hall in Tillicoultry.

The star of the show will be Tillicoultry girl Lauren Paterson of Stars In Their Eyes fame.

“I’m delighted that Lauren has given support to the cause.

“We have a great line-up for the evening with something for everyone.

“This will be the first in a series of fund-raisers which we hope will capture everyone’s imagination,” added John.

The line-up also includes bands Rubix Touch and Konrad and Scottish ballad singer John Douglas. Stirling’s Stageworx dancers will also perform while Lisa and Emma Dunlop, known as Little Bird, will sing.

Tickets are available from Dunbar The Jewellers in Alloa, The Windmill in Menstrie, Craft Magic in Alva, Inspirations in Tillicoultry and The Paper Shop in Dollar.