Sky's the limit for raising vital funds

From the Echo, first published Thursday 2nd Oct 2003.

STARGAZERS will be given a guided tour of the heavens in a new effort to support a fundraising campaign.

Amateur astronomer David Moth is inviting people who are interested in the stars to join him in his Weymouth garden.

There will be a charge to look through David's giant telescope - but it's all in a good cause.

He and wife Chris need to raise £5,200 by December so they can take part in a 225-mile sponsored cycle across Cuba next February, an event organised by mental health charity Mind.

David and Chris, whose 31-year-old daughter Sally committed suicide earlier this year after a long battle with depression, view the trip as an opportunity to highlight the issues surrounding mental health as well as a way of raising money for a worthy cause.

A number of fundraising events have been organised to help David and Chris achieve their target.

Well over £500 was raised following a 24-hour sponsored snooker marathon and non-stop table tennis event in Broadwey last week.

The event was rounded off with a social evening featuring an auction, a quiz and a raffle.

It was a great success and David would like to thank everyone who contributed.

The next event is a kite festival on Saturday, October 11, at Goulds Hill, Upwey, starting at 10am. The stargazing evenings will begin at the end of October, an ideal time for astronomical observations because there will be less interference from the moon.

David, 56, said: "I have been interested in astronomy since I was ten years old.

"I find it fascinating. The scale of the universe is mind-blowing.

"When I'm looking at the stars I wonder if there's someone up there looking down at me."

He added: "I have three telescopes people will be able to use.

"There will be a two-hour tour of the stars to include some interesting sights like the Crab Nebula and Orion's sword."

For details of all events and to sponsor David and Chris call 01305 812218.

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