A lucky Aberdeenshire woman has had a unique birthday treat – by winning a diamond ring.
Throughout lockdown, HomeStart Garioch has been providing phone calls to families in need and, now that it is possible, are beginning to welcome people back into their base in Inverurie.
The charity, which celebrated their 25th anniversary in April, helps hundreds of families across Aberdeenshire.
But like so many other organisations, their income has taken a substantial hit during the pandemic.
To help boost funds and morale, the charity recently launched a diamond ring competition, selling squares for £5 each to help raise funds.
A nine carat white gold ring had been beautifully cleaned and restored by an Aberdeenshire jeweller and, soon enough, all the squares sold out.
The winner was Ashleigh Conner, with number seven.
The number had been chosen on July 7 and on Ms Conner’s birthday, adding to the surprise.
Homestart Garioch manager Mhairi Phillip said: “We were lucky to get the ring donated to us, and a jeweller in Fraserburgh cleaned it, plated it and it pretty much was like a brand new ring.
“We had 100 squares available at £5 each and they all sold out within the day, it was amazing.
“Ashleigh is so lovely and it was amazing when number seven got chosen, on July 7, and when it turned out to be her birthday.”
To find out more about HomeStart Garioch visit
https://www.homestartgarioch.org.uk/