Forres Mechanics set to install new floodlights after £90,000 fundraising target is met
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NEW floodlights are set to be installed at Mosset Park after Forres Mechanics smashed a fundraising target.
The club was aiming to raise £90,000 to assist with the installation of the new floodlights – and achieved that target in recent weeks.
Funding was provided by the Berry Burn Community Fund, Scottish Landfill Communities Fund and the Scottish Football Association, among others.
Generous donations to Forres Mechanics' JustGiving appeal were also made by Can-Cans supporters, while funds were raised at Ladies Day and Quiz Night events.
The appeal was launched in the middle of October, with £90,000 having been raised in five months.
Chairman David MacKintosh said: “The club would like to thank supporters near and far, local businesses and the Forres community as a whole.
"Everyone’s contributions are hugely appreciated by all at Forres Mechanics Football Club. Thank you for your donations and supporting our fundraising events.
"A massive thank-you goes to Don Wright for all his hard work and guidance through the grant application processes."
The current floodlights at Mosset Park have stood for more than 40 years, and will be taken down after the final home game of the season against Buckie Thistle on April 1.
It is hoped that the new floodlights – which are rated 300 lux and will operate at half the cost of the current floodlights – will last as long their predecessors.
Don Wright, who coordinated funding applications with committee member Sandy Aird, added: "The floodlights will be more energy efficient and help the club reach net zero.
"The lights that we had before were below the minimum SFA requirements (200 lux) so we are going for 300, which futureproofs against any enhancement of the lighting requirements.
"We are hoping to have the new lights installed and in commission by June and expect to get 40 years out of these no bother."
In addition to the floodlights being stronger, the towers will also be smaller. They are set to stand at 15 metres instead of 18.
The final fundraiser – which is now set to bolster club funds – is set to take place on Saturday, March 25, when Moray band Sold On Soul play at Forres Town Hall.
Tickets cost £20 each and can be bought at http://bit.ly/3xb1cXr.
