Highland man's tapestry to raise vital funds for Mikeysline
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A floral and polka dot tapestry that took 460 hours to complete is being auctioned to raise "much needed" cash for Mikeysline.
George Robinson (60), from Rhynie near Fearn, said he wanted to support the charity after two decades of suffering with mental health issues.
The tapestry, made up from more than 36,000 pieces, is being auctioned on justgiving.com. By paying a donation of £5 people can be in with a chance of owning the tapestry, said to be worth more than £500.
Mr Robinson, who uses a latch hook technique to make his tapestries learned the skill from his dad, Donald. Last year he made a tapestry that was auctioned to raise money for Highland Hospice.
He said: "Many people will not know that I have suffered with depression for about 20 years. Because of the pandemic I know that Mikeysline will need some extra funding as it is a much needed mental health charity."
The tapestry measures 4'9" by 3' and took 56 days to complete.
He continued: "My story is that I had a head injury 20 years ago and I struggled with bouts of mental health problems .
"I overcame it with expert help which I will always be grateful for.
"There is so much stigma surrounding mental health, especially among men and I wanted to speak out and share my story. There is support there – and Mikeysline does an incredible job.
"I have been a member of the lodge for more than 30 years and I have told members of my story, and I have received incredible support. People might say it is 'ok to not be ok', but people need to start to believe it as well.
"I hope by raising funds for Mikeysline that more people will have someone to reach out to.
"I just want to say that by speaking about what is going on in your head is the first step to getting better."
Mr Robinson has already raised £1000 thanks to donations from the lodge, and donations to his online appeal.
To make a donation visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/george-robinson15. The fundraiser will run until Saturday April 10 2021.
The Provincial Grand Master Robin Cattenach paid for the tapestry kit for Mr Robinson.
