Post by SheWolf on Jun 27, 2008 20:17:12 GMT 1
From The Northern Scot
HE may be Emmerdale's Mr Bad Guy, but Eric Pollard could bring some much-needed good luck to one of Moray's largest outdoor events.
Organisers of Keith Country Show are banking on the soap star helping draw in crowds to their two-day showpiece.
Actor Chris Chittell – who plays the crooked Emmerdale baddie – will be pulling on his running vest and trainers to join in a 10k race in aid of his favourite charity.
And, proving that he is game for a laugh, he will join in the thrills and spills of an Oor Wullie-style kartie race in the main arena.
Assistant entertainment convener Davie Carson said: "We hope his appearance will add a presence to the show and draw people in."
Chris takes part in numerous fun runs and charitable events, and his appearance in Moray will help raise funds for the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust.
He will attend a £60-a-ticket dinner at the Craigellachie Hotel on Saturday, August 9, a charity night with some top prizes going under the hammer. Going to the highest bidder will be weekend luxury hotel breaks, fishing on the Spey, and a trip to Emmerdale set location with flights and accommodation included.
Money raised from the auction and raffle will be donated to the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust and tickets for the tables-of-eight are now available. Entry money from the show's 10K race the following day – Sunday, August 10 – will also go to the Trust.
The race will start and finish at the showground and takes place on a mixed course of road and track taking in he countryside of Keith.
The race starts at 1.30pm and you can enter online at www.anthonynolan.org.uk or call 01877 382149.
Entrants to the kartie race will be encouraged to dress up as an Oor Wullie character such as Soapy Souter, Wee Eck, Fat Bob or Primrose or PC Murdoch, with a special prize for the best dressed team. Local groups and businesses are invited to put forward teams of three – one driver and two others to help guide the kart round the course.
Last year's show was a washout after torrential rain on the Sunday of the show forced organisers to abandon the second day, and organisers are looking for better fortunes this time round.
Mr Carson added: "We need a much-needed boost after last year's show. Like every other show that takes place, the weather plays a huge part in its success. We are delighted Chris Chittell is coming to support us this year, and we are hoping for fine weather as well."
The two-day show on Sunday, August 10 and Monday, August 11 features a host of ringside attractions including the Honda Little Imps young motorbike stunt team, falconry display, pipe bands, horse jumping.
Within the showground there will be a food fair, fashion show, craft fair, education tent, flower and industrial show and trade stands and catering units aplenty, and competitive classes for horses, cattle and sheep.
For further information, or to enter a team into the kartie race, contact show secretary Alison Ironside on 01542 882978.