PIPS Larne pay tribute to fundraising former Mayor

Former Mayor of Larne Martin Wilson presents a cheque for over £4000 to Carlee Letson of PIPS Larne. INLT-15-705-con

Mr Wilson presented PIPS Larne Co-ordinator and Chariperson Carlee Letson with a cheque for £4306.20 at Smiley Buildings on March 30.

The money was raised during a series of events throughout the year.

These included £392 from the Mayor’s Breakfast, £207.97 from the Mayor’s business event at Christmas, £1055.30 from the Sports Forum and £2650.93 from the Mayor’s charity Valentines Ball.

Treasurer of PIPS Larne Peter McAllister commented: “This will be a great help to PIPS Larne, especially at this time when we have recently acquired a new premises, the old Woodside’s building in Main street, and will help us with the refurbishment required.

“We are hoping to have our doors open to anyone in need later in the year and will be in a position to offer all our services under one roof.”

“The organisation wish to thank both Mr Wilson and his wife Margaret for their support throughout the year.”

The first couple’s involvement with the charity began with the “Walk a Mile in my shoes” event, during which the then-Mayor donned high heels and his wife dressed in a fireman’s outfit, leading a walk around the town in order to raise awareness of mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding suicide.

Recalling the event, Peter commented: “It was a brilliant day and brought the whole community together in a fun way dealing with a serious problem, Mental Health.

“This was closely followed by our event for World Suicide Prevention Day and once again Martin was there to speak on behalf of PIPS Larne.

“Martin also attended our Tree of Lights ceremony and showed a great empathy and compassion for the families there when he spoke.”

Mr Wilson also offered support to the organisation when it received the devastating news that its current building could not comply to modern health and safety requirements and would never be fit for purpose.

Peter concluded: “Martin encouraged us to keep on going and things would turn around which they have. PIPS Larne hope to enjoy the continued support of Martin and Margaret and want to wish them all the very best for the future.”