Football fun as a popular event returns to Ross County to entertain children with additional support needs
A Ross-shire duo behind a series of events to support bereaved children is set to organise a new fun day dedicated to children with additional support needs.
Funeral home manager Jim Murray and his partner Fiona Campbell, a pupil support assistant (PSA) at Dingwall Primary, have teamed up with Ross County Football Club once again to offer a day of fun, crafts and footie for kids with special needs in November.
The free event will also give children the opportunity to meet some of the players as well as enjoy watching the game on the day.
Ms Campbell said: “We have organised four fun days for bereaved children so far, and they all went very well so we thought we’d try something different.
“Being a PSA at Dingwall Primary, I thought it would be great to offer something for ASN children in our area.”
Ms Campbell and Mr Murray came up with the idea of a day dedicated to support young people who lost a loved one in memory of an Easter Ross mum - and Mr Murray’s former colleague - who passed away in 2022.
Their events, organised both in Dingwall and Inverness, proved to be extremely popular among local families.
“One of the best things people got out of these events was that they connected with other people, they met and remained in contact, and supported each other after the event. It brought people together.
“We will continue to do fun days for children who lost a loved one in the future, but we thought we’d try to adapt it to a different group this time.”
Although the princesses will not be in attendance this time, children will be entertained by Fox & Friends and craft activities before the match. Ear defenders will also be made available thanks to Ross County for anyone who is noise-sensitive to enjoy the game.
The event is sponsored by D Gunn Funeral Directors in Dingwall, with food available on the day as well a goodie bag for the children taking part.
This first event will be limited to 80 spaces and only to ASN children accompanied by one parent, but Ms Campbell said they hope to be able to accommodate siblings in future events.
The money raised through collection on the day will go towards the ASN department at Dingwall Primary.
The fun day will take place on November 23 in the Victoria Suite at Ross County FC between 11.30am and 2.30pm - for children of up to 12. Anyone interested in taking part can contact 07563539350.
