09-07-2025
Fundraising campaign launched to help Dumfries and Galloway restaurant hit by fire
Firefighters were called out to The Olive Retreat on King Street on Tuesday night to tackle the blaze.
A fundraising campaign has been launched to help a Castle Douglas restaurant hit by fire.
Firefighters were called out to The Olive Retreat on King Street on Tuesday night to tackle the blaze.
The popular eatery is a big supporter of the local community, organising annual raffles to support good causes.
They have also helped fuel the team at Castle Douglas Soap Box Derby, which takes place this weekend.
And, in both its current guise and previous name Nikos, it has helped support Ukrainian refugees who fled to the region following the Russian invasion in 2022.
Now, an online fundraising page has been set up to help the team at The Olive Retreat, with more than £700 raised inside 24 hours.
One of the Castle Douglas Soap Box Derby organisers, Matt Mckerlie, posted: 'Help the team at The Olive Reteat.
'As most will know, tonight there's been a fire which couldn't have come at a worse time with summer season arriving.
'Sam and the team have supported the town, groups, fundraising, charities and our community.
'It will take time to get back on their feet so lets show them how much we support and appreciate them.
'They are a pillar of the community in the heart of the town."
The fundraiser can be found on JustGiving.
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: 'We were alerted at 6.55pm on Tuesday, July 8, to reports of a fire within commercial premises on King Street in Castle Douglas.
'Operations control mobilised two fire appliances to the scene, and the fire was extinguished.
'There were no casualties, and crews left the area after ensuring it was safe.'
