Ross-shire poppy display returns as Hairy Piper raises thousands for charity
A FORMER Black Isle soldier has raised thousands for a deserving cause yet again in the run up to Remembrance Sunday.
Along with wife Siobhain, Ali Duff - also known as the Hairy Piper on social media - has created thousands of poppies from recycled bottle tops to decorate the Avoch war memorial.
Launching an associated online campaign in aid of Popyscotland, this year’s fundraising effort has already surpassed a £5000 target.
EXPLAINED: Why I wear a white poppy
Poppy display in tune with Avoch hairy piper's poignant fundraiser
Taking to social media Mr Duff said: “Wow. Thank you to you all, yet again you have helped me achieve another target, you are all amazing.
“Target smashed - total raised so far £5050 plus £805 in Gift Aid, giving us a combined total of £5855.”
Mr Duff served in the Royal Artillery between 1993 to 2003, completing two tours of Kosovo in this time.
He was then administratively discharged before getting medically discharged after receiving a diagnosis of PTSD. He reached out to Poppyscotland, who helped put him on the right track.
You can donate at https://tinyurl.com/4eudz5ad