Garden music festival is a big success

Kathleen Robertson, Cindy McKee and Kiersten Pecchia were the women behind Breast Fest 18, an event in a garden on St Leonard’s Road that featured well-known singers and bands, attracting more than 100 attendees and raising £1253 for Walk the Walk.

Kathleen explained: “We are all women in our late forties and have friends who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Walk the Walk gives grants to all cancer charities, including Maggie’s Centres, to ensure continued research and help for patients and families who are going through it now.”

Easy listening singer and guitarist, Neil Robertson, who often plays the Beastie, opened the event at midday. He was followed by the Dandy Ceilidh Band, who performed favourite ceilidh dances and more. Dougie Burns and the Cadillacs also played original bluesy rock ‘n’ roll numbers.

Singer-songwriter Ailsa Villegas slowed things down a bit before award winning piper Scott Oliphant lead Strip the Willow and other traditional dances on the lawn until 6pm.

“Breast Fest was really busy,” said Kathleen. As well as the music, there was cake, tea, coffee and other refreshments. Many people brought picnic rugs and camping chairs. It was a family event so there were a few toddlers running around. The sunshine added to the jovial festival atmosphere too!”

Kathleen Robertson, Cindy McKee and Kiersten Pecchia are going on a Walk the Walk-organised self-funded trip to the Swedish Arctic in March to complete a fundraising cross-country skiing marathon over two days, which includes sleeping on the ice overnight.

Richard Lochhead MSP and his family were at Breast Fest to show their support.

He said: “We thoroughly enjoyed a very entertaining afternoon with a great barbecue and cakes, and multi-talented musicians.

“Well done to all who donated and for helping to raise so much cash that will help charities undertake research or provide support to those affected by breast cancer.”

The trio are doing a collection in Forres Tesco on the September 22 and are planning a dinner and auction at Forres Golf Club in November.

To sponsor them online, visit https://arcticchallenge2019.everydayhero.com/uk/the-arctic-angels