Fundraiser inspired by 'Beefy'

FORMER Alderney resident Ian Botham has inspired local man Robin Dupont to organise a charity walk.

Mr Dupont, whose mum Ann has received support from Alderney Cancer Relief since being diagnosed with lung cancer in December 2009, started planning the event after watching a documentary about the retired cricketer.

Handyman Robin, 47, said: 'Alderney Cancer Relief has done a lot for my mum and dad and we wanted to give something back as a family. Without them, my dad wouldn't have been able to go with mum to Guernsey and Southampton while she was receiving treatment.

'I watched the programme about Ian Botham and was inspired by the walks he did for leukemia.'

Those who want to take part in the walk will also be asked to pick up rubbish.

Robin said: 'We thought it would be a good idea to clean up the island, so everyone who has a sponsor form will be asked to collect rubbish as well.'

Despite undergoing chemotherapy, Ann is planning to take part in the walk.

Robin said: 'This will give mum something to focus on. She's hoping to walk the first part of the route.'

Anyone who would like to get involved should call Robin on 07781 465895.

A book about Alderney myths and legends is proving popular.

The Devil's Rock, which was researched and written by Christian Harris and Orlando Britts, sold out in just two days when it was released earlier this month.

A second print run of 200 has been organised to keep up with demand.

Christian, who lives in St Martin's and works for Aurigny, said: 'Orlando and I have been friends since childhood and were always interested in local stories, myths and legends. We wanted to document everything we'd heard so it wouldn't be lost and that's when we had the idea for a book.

'It's taken us seven years to research, so we're delighted with the reaction. People realise it's a humorous look at the island and seem to appreciate the style.'

Artist Orlando, who lives in Brighton, said: 'Over the years there has been a lot of books produced about Guernsey and Jersey, with Alderney only featuring as a footnote. We wanted to redress the balance a bit and we feel this book does just that.'

Orlando added: 'So many people have spoken to us about the stories featured and many have come up with different stories. We may release a second book soon.'

n For more information on the book, visit www.alderney thedevilsrock.com.

Aurigny got in touch with me after last week's column and asked if I would clarify a few things - which I am happy to do.

I said that many islanders were concerned that the airline was cutting capacity on the Alderney-Southampton link by 9%, with many fearing it could be the beginning of the end for the route.

Aurigny's managing director Malcolm Hart sent me a letter saying the airline realised Alderney-Southampton was a lifeline service and that it will not be dropped. He also said it was Aurigny's intention to help attract more visitors to the island.

Malcolm went on to say extra Alderney-Guernsey flights would be added in order to cut waiting times for through flights. It was the airline's aim to limit any wait for passengers flying via Guernsey to no more than three hours.

Malcolm ended the letter by saying Aurigny would like to apologise for alarming and upsetting islanders. He assured me that was not the airline's intention.