"We will keep going every year": Moray fundraiser's memorial darts tournament raises £1000 with appearance by Peter Manley, supporting British Heart Foundation and Macmillian
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A MAINSTAY memorial darts tournament in Elgin has vowed to continue after another "excellent day" which raised £1000 for charity.
The annual Jean Ross Memorial Darts Tournament took place on Sunday, August 20 at the Elgin Ex-Service's club, honouring a well-known Moray fundraiser.
Originally from Lossiemouth, Jean raised thousands for charities of choice Macmillian and the British Heart Foundation, before she passed away in August 2007 following a stroke.
Jean's family and friends vowed to remember the much-loved wife, mother and grandmother with an annual darts tournament – hosting the first in 2008 to mark a year since her passing.
Now, 16 years after her death, the family are more determined than ever to continue the event.
Patricia Ross, Jean's daughter, took the reins in organising this year's event, with support from father Bill Ross, brother Dougie Ross and many others.
"We have been collecting money for Macmillan nurses and the British Heart Foundation for a long long time," she said.
"Because they were her two charities.
"It was very good day this year, an excellent day.
"It's always been a good thing.
"And we will keep going every year."
The 2023 tournament featured a kids competition and a visit from professional darts legend Peter Manley.
A raffle gave attendees the chance to face off against the Las Vegas Dessert Classic 2003 winner, who was twice world number one and three-time world champion runner-up.
Raising £1000 in total, the funds were split equally between the two charities.
Susan Lissamer, from sponsor C&R Taxis, stood in for manager John Milne to accept the money from Patricia on behalf of Macmillan.
A long-time part of the Elgin ladies league, Susan said the memorial event was a great chance to meet old friends and C&R Taxis is proud to support it.
She added that it was good to see "the next generation" stepping up to help organise the event, with Patricia's own nieces and nephews now getting involved.
Susan said: "I have watched everybody have their kids, who are all now having their own kids."
Marcelle Pratt, assistant manager at the Elgin British Heart Foundation shop, accepting the donation, said the money would make a significant difference to heart disease research efforts.
"It is a really good thing every year, and it is good to receive it today," she added.
Along with Patricia, Willie and Dougie Ross, many family and friends had a hand in making this year's event such a success.
Among others, these included: Courtney McBain; Shannon Esson; Ross Esson; Sandra Geddes; Lizzie Prosser; Elaine McBain and Maria Ross.
