Pictured: Pupils from Langlees Primary School with Joanne Fox, Trustee and Secretary of Bainsford Hall Community Group, and Dean Laidlaw, Contract Supervisor at David Morton.

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Having won the contract to demolish Abbotsford House in Bainsford, the company committed to providing community benefit beyond their main contractual obligations.

After successfully completing the demolition of the council building that was situated on David's Loan in April this year, the firm worked with council officers to identify a local group that could benefit from a monetary donation.

Bainsford Hall Community Group (BHCG), who are actively involved in the Community Asset Transfer of Bainsford Community Hall, was selected as the deserving recipient with the funds being used to support a second bike-themed event this summer.

Working together

The charity, made up of volunteers from the local area, took over the running of the hall in June 2022. Since then, the group has hosted a wide range of activities for all ages and backgrounds, including crafting groups, cooking classes, food and poverty initiatives, exercise classes, bingo and tea dances.

Having already organised for Recyke-a-Bike to provide free bike maintenance classes and bike checks in the hall on David’s Loan on Monday, 15 July, BHCG will now host an additional event in Dawson Park on Friday, 2 August thanks to the donation.

Joanne Fox, Trustee and Secretary, BHCG, said:

"We want Bainsford and Langlees to be a better place to live for everyone. The Bike Events are an example of what can be done when you put your mind to it. We are always looking for people to get involved."

What to expect

Joan Sutherland, Trustee and Treasurer, BHCG thanked both the council for recommending the group for the donation and David Morton for its generosity. She said:

"We are very grateful for the funding as it has allowed us to organise an event that will offer local people of all ages a chance to get their bikes checked for free, with minor repairs and adjustments carried out on the spot. Even if youngsters don’t own a bike, they can still participate in cycle games on the day, with a range of bikes and helmets available to ensure everyone can cycle safely."

Wilma Morton, Managing Director, David Morton Ltd, said:

“As a local firm, it’s crucial for us to give back to the communities in which we work. Supporting groups like Bainsford Hall Community Group or by providing work experience and jobs to local people, is our way of contributing. Offering bike health checks and fun games is a great way to help local people gain confidence on their bikes and encourages active travel.”

Paul Kettrick, Falkirk Council’s Head of Invest Falkirk, added:

“David Morton’s donation demonstrates the positive impact that our community benefit clause can have. Supporting Bainsford Hall Community Group, the donation will help promote healthier, more active lifestyles. It's fantastic to see such initiatives come to life and make a real difference.”

Notes to editor

• If you would like to find out more about Bainsford Hall Community Group, email the group directly at Bainsfordhallcommunitygroup@gmail.com or join its Facebook page.
• On Monday, 15 July, bike maintenance will be offered between 10am and 12 noon in the hall on a first come first served basis. The free bike checks will run from 1pm to 4pm.
• To take part in activities that run from 10am to 3pm, on Friday, 2 August, children must be accompanied by an adult
• To read about another community benefit provided by David Morton visit Falkirk Council news.