PUPILS and staff of a Lochaber primary school targeted by heartless thieves say they have been overwhelmed by the support and generosity of the community since the sickening incident took place.
And this week, through the Lochaber News, the children and teachers at Caol Primary School have issued a heartfelt “thank you” to the parents, grandparents, friends, businesses, sports teams and other individuals who have rallied to the school’s aid following the break-in last month to donate money, equipment, raffle prizes and tasty treats.
Investigations continue into the January 11-12 robbery in which the culprits stole hundreds of pounds in cash, three laptop computers, two digital cameras, three overhead projectors and a Nintendo Wii games console paid for by the children themselves.
Police believe the school break-in may be linked to a spate of thefts from businesses and industrial yards in the Fort William, Caol and Corpach areas since the turn of the year.
This week, Caol Primary School head teacher Steven Hamilton told the LN: “We have been overwhelmed by the support shown to the school since the break-in. The community spirit displayed through not only individual acts of generosity but also by people attending events to raise money for us has been incredible.
“We have decided that all the money raised will be put towards replacing some computer equipment and towards our trips this session; both nursery and the whole school trip to Blair Drummond. This way every child in the school will benefit.”
The school, said Mr Hamilton, wished especially to thank Liz MacMillan who organised a car boot sale on Sunday, January 29, and everyone who attended. Thanks are also expressed to Lisa Henderson and Linda Henderson for making and selling the “mountain” of baking donations and to Norma and Iain Gregor who donated the income from their bouncy castle.
The head teacher continued: “Thanks to Fort William Football Club who donated a new Wii, games and accessories; The Moorings Hotel who donated £200 and an anonymous grandparent who donated £100.
“The Co-op have donated £200 towards refreshments at the Caol’s Got Talent Show and a hamper for us to raffle.
“After the car boot sale Mark and Penny Watt donated £30 from their stall and Fay Houghton donated £50 from Caol Community Centre. Margaret Antonious’s Scripture Union Prayer Group donated £37.50 and Eric Wallace gave a lot of games and small items to the school.
“Elaine Guinness, our recently retired support for learning teacher, donated a tonne of biscuits and sweets for staff and pupils and Jean Innes will organise a prize bingo soon.”
