Unfair criticism of Stornoway Carnival 30/8/10
Sirs,
Stornoway and District Round Table would like to respond to a story in a newspaper about a complaint from a stallholder who had come across on the ferry to attend the Lewis Carnival.
The actual 'story' was the proverbial ‘storm in a tea cup’ and we’re disappointed that the gentleman went straight to a newspaper instead of contacting us directly where we could have dealt with his complaint in a professional manner.
The stallholder was the only one to complain at being charged £80 for the pleasure of having potentially 5,000 customers walk past his stall. The complaint was that it was double what was charged last year. Unfortunately it was our error last year as we should have actually received £80 from the gentleman but failed to do so.
When the gentleman was leaving at the end of the day he drove past where our members were clearing up, stopping only to produce a receipt showing a charity donation. This could have meant he was eligible for a reduced fee, but as he didn't register (as all other stallholders did), then we didn't have the time to examine his case which would have cleared all confusion.
We would also clarify that all stallholder fees collected are distributed to local good causes. As we don't know who the gentleman concerned is, we would be grateful if he could write to us and we will deal with the matter, and apologise for any inconvenience caused.
However, we are disappointed at the unfair rubbishing of the good name of the many Round Tablers who have provided assistance, both personally and financially, over many years.
For those who don’t know, members of Round Table are volunteers who give their time throughout the year freely assisting individuals, families and local good causes in our community. Many donations are made throughout the year to ill children, families who have undergone devastating events, and to many individuals and groups who require much needed funding. This is nearly always done behind the scenes without any fanfare or publicity.
It is also worrying why competitors are allowed to trade in the town centre on our
main fund-
Nevertheless, the Round Table Lewis Carnival continues despite these outside pressures. However, the event can only take place if there’s a Carnival procession, and we’re hugely indebted to the many individuals and organisations that make the tremendous effort to prepare an entry.
The success of the event depends wholly on these people. Without them, the event could not go ahead. It has to be noted that these entries do not make a penny from all their hard work. Each prize of £250 (donated by the Fairground) is given to a good cause of their choice.
We also greatly appreciate the valued contribution of the many individuals and businesses who give their time, equipment & resources every year. Thanks to DR Macleod, Robert Doig, Mackinnons Bakery, Events, Charlie (Fairground), Stornoway 41 Club, ND Macleod, Cabarfeidh Hotel, Lewis Pipe Band, Stornoway Golf Club, Lewis Builders, Mackinnon Self Drive, HM Coastguard, Point Show, Fire Brigade, Grillburger, Rod Huckbody, British Red Cross, Clachan Bar, Isles fm, Camanachd Leodhais, Eddie Mould Joinery, Studio Alba, WJ Macdonald, Iain Mackay Electrical, Northern Constabulary, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, and the many volunteers who assisted on the day.
RNLI is this year’s nominated Round Table national charity and we expect to raise over £150,000 for crew training. If anyone wishes to donate to this cause which is particularly close to us all, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Paul Duke
Chairman
Stornoway & District Round Table
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