A BEAR-ILLIANT sculpture on the outskirts of Dunbar is donning a virtual spotted eyepatch as part of the joint BBC Children in Need and Comic Relief ‘Big Night In’.
The five-metre high DunBear sculpture, created by renowned Scottish artist, Andy Scott, the man behind the ‘Kelpies’, will don the virtual eye patch, which will be promoted via social media, as a means to encourage people to give to the cause.
The programme, which takes place this evening (Thursday) at 7pm, is raising funds for local projects across the UK during the coronavirus pandemic.
Stars such as Sir Lenny Henry, Davina McCall and Gary Barlow will take part in the event on BBC1, with DunBear doing his bit with a Pudsey-style eyepatch.
Individuals are also being encouraged to contribute to Dunbar charity, The Ridge.
The good cause, recognised for its outstanding work with young people, has joined forces with Dunbar’s community council as it shifts its focus to providing practical support for those of all ages adversely affected by Covid-19.
Jointly managed funds are already making a difference by providing food, clothes, toys and books.
A hot meals service is underway and The Ridge will direct and support people to debt advice services, mental health services and counselling.
Small grants are available to groups, charities or individuals where such a grant will help people in crisis.
Pippa Swan, chairwoman of Dunbar Community Council, praised The Ridge’s work and said: “Their community work places them in the very best position to take a lead in helping individuals and families during the Covid-19 crisis and beyond and any funds raised will be directed fully to those in most need of help.”
The sculpture celebrates one of Dunbar’s most famous sons, John Muir, born on Tuesday this week in 1838, who is credited with playing a key role in the development of America’s national parks.
It forms part of the mixed-use Hallhill development, which has already delivered sports facilities, 56 acres of community woodland together with more than 1,500 homes, either built or under construction.
To support The Ridge go to paypal.me/The RidgeDunbar?locale. x=en_GB
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