A magic spell was cast over a Perthshire school as it raised vital funds for a local charity.
Glenalmond College was transformed into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and conjured up £28,000 for Perth and District YMCA in the process.
The charity’s annual fundraising ball in the independent school between Perth and Criff, saw guests immersed in Harry Potter’s magical world of muggles, wizards and the wandcraft.
Perth-born actor Ewan McGregor appeared via video link to encourage others to support the charity’s work, which includes mentoring young people and running residential camps.
The front of the school was transformed into a train station, with fans of the JK Rowling series recognising platform 9 ¾ – the secret leaving point for trips to Hogwarts, the school for budding wizards.
Guests then wandered through magical shopping street Diagon Alley and leafed through a specially-printed copy of newspaper The Daily Prophet.
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Danyell Bowater, youth worker, said famous characters from the series kept guests entertained: “During dinner, Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall ensured all guests were well-informed, looked after and scolded, if need-be.
“The evening proceeded with a three-course meal prepared by the Glenalmond College catering staff and inspiring speakers, including a special digital appearance from Ewan McGregor encouraging others to support the work done by Perth and District YMCA and a young person sharing her journey and the impact that the YMCA has had on her life.
“Student, Abigail Strickland, wowed the audience as she sung Bring Them Home beautifully. The evening continued with an entertaining auction, full of theatrics and fun and That Swing Sensation had guests dancing the night away.”
She said money raised at the charity ball will go toward activities such as the continued mentoring of young people and running residential camps.
“Both are incredibly effective ways of building positive relationships and joining young people on their own journeys. Unrestricted funding such as that gained at the charity ball also enables us to have an open-door policy with our young people, empowering them to access our support as it is needed.”
YMCA is the largest and the oldest youth charity in the world. It focuses on young people and helps them play a fulfilling role within their communities.
Although part of a worldwide movement, each YMCA is autonomous in governance and finance.
