Burns Supper could help Stenhousemuir cancer fighter hit £50,000 fundraising mark

Cameron Shanks, best known as Cammy, has helped to drum up more than £45,000 for Maggie’s Forth Valley.

He has done so to give back to the Larbert-based service for the support its staff have shown him and his family in the aftermath of a stomach cancer diagnosis last April, when he was told he had just six to ten months left to live.

The 59-year-old former police dog handler announced his retirement from the force earlier this month after 43 years’ service shortly before he handed over a cheque for £45,718.80 to Maggie’s.

Various family members and friends have played their part to contribute to that total and now the organiser of the Burns Supper, Sean Pearson, hopes the night will see the sum reach £50,000.

Sean had originally planned to entertain around a dozen guests in the bar in his front garden with his friend and musician, Dougie Smith, performing live to coin in cash for Maggie’s on behalf of Cammy, who he used to play football with.

His plan proved so popular, though, that the Ladysmill resident had to move the event to Larbert Bowling Club to accommodate the 100-plus people who have bought tickets for this Friday’s fundraiser.

As well as Cammy’s remarkable fundraising efforts, Sean said he has been moved by the way in which the dad-of-two has faced up to his illness.

He explained: “When I found out he was terminal that hit me.

“This is a man who spent 43 years in the police force and saw a lot of hard things.

“Being Scottish and a man, you maybe expect him not to show emotions but he’s quite happy to.

“We want to do two events a year for cancer and suicide prevention charities because we’ve been hit by that as well.

“We’ve got a fantastic night lined up and some of the best Burns speakers in the area.”

Friday’s Burns Supper will begin at the Pretoria Road club at 7pm and run until midnight, after which Sean will open his home bar to around 40 guests for more live music, with all proceeds going towards the final total.

Butchery firm Malcolm Allan has generously donated pies and haggis free of charge for the Burns Supper, while Falkirk Football Club and other firms have also given their backing by providing prizes for a raffle and auction.

Ex-Bairns striker Sammy McGivern will also be in attendance as a guest speaker.

Tickets for the evening, which includes a three-course meal, are still available for £25-per-person.

To buy a ticket, email [email protected] or call Sean on 07497302176.

Organisers would also appreciate any donations of raffle prizes from individuals or businesses.