A north-east man who beat bladder cancer says he has been overwhelmed by the support shown to him in his effort to raise money for the charity Ucan.
To raise cash, John Burdon, who lives with his wife Anna in Cuminestown, is hosting a spectacular fireworks event in New Deer tomorrow.
Speaking last night, Mr Burdon, 61, said: “It’s grown arms and legs, really, because we got the fireworks organised in a small way and now it’s grown into a big, proper display.
“I decided to raise the money for them because I wasn’t aware that there’s things like this that needed a bit of help. The stark fact was they’re trying to raise money for a robotic surgery machine. There’s none in Scotland at the minute, but there’s five in England and hundreds worldwide.
“I stuck a few quid in myself, then thought we ought to do something better. It started off as a slightly mad idea, but it’s developed into something more substantial,” he added.
The robotic surgery machine is to be based in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
Ucan’s fundraising manager, Fiona Pearson, said: “We would like to thank John and his friends for organising this exciting event to raise funds for Ucan and for the campaign to bring robotic surgery to the north of Scotland, which Ucan is spear-heading. We hope it’s a huge success and that everyone enjoys themselves.”
The display, at the New Deer showground, begins at 7.30pm. There will also be a tombola, refreshments and activities for children.
Mr Burdon is hopeful that if the event proves popular it can become a regular fixture on the local calendar.