A SPECIAL Christmas quiz and raffle is taking place on the Isle of Cumbrae in memory of much-missed Millport man Steven Blair.

Steven was a popular islander who was just 31 when he passed away in February 2012 following a night out with friends.

Steven's parents Hunter and Susan arrange an annual event at the Newton Bar lounge and will gather on Saturday 7 December to raise funds for CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).

The community have always rallied round the Blair family and have carried out a range of fundraising activities in Steven's name, including a run around the island to raise funds for CRY.

The charity aims to reduce the frequency of young sudden cardiac death by working with cardiologists and family doctors to encourage testing and improve research into the cause.

Susan said: "We have raised almost £25,000 since we started, which is a tremendous figure. We can't thank the community enough, everyone's support has meant so much to us.

"Steven worked for the council as a driver. Whether it was collecting bins or gritting the roads, he was an ever-present on the island, someone who loved to help people.

"He was also a great son, brother, grandson and friend to many on Millport. He was taken far too soon from all of us.

"Steven was a big part of the community and everybody misses him. He was a bit of a practical joker and he had quite a unique sense of humour. We have the quiz at this time of year because the build-up to Christmas was always a special time for him. He loved this time of year."

Suzanne explained who they picked CRY as their chosen charity.

She said: "It is not so well known so doesn't receive as many pledges. They are always overwhelmed at the support from the island.

"We have various collection tins set up around Millport as well as CRY Christmas cards for sale, both of which have also helped raise a lot of money over the years."

Tickets for the quiz cost £4 each and include a light supper and disco. Teams should be a maximum of six people.

For tickets contact Hunter and Susan on 01475530674 or e-mail on blair5atmillport@btinternet.com

CRY provide a bereavement support service to provide counselling and support to affected families, run a national screening programme to make cardiac screening available for young people aged between 14-35, and develop ‘myheart’ - a network that provides support, help and information to young people living with cardiac conditions. Every week in the UK at least 12 young people die of undiagnosed heart conditions.

For more details about CRY, go to their website www.c-r-y.org.uk or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CardiacRiskInTheYoung