Tag: charity fundraising

Barnardo’s Bridge adventure adds ‘Ultimate Experience’ for lucky few

‘Your View on the Forth Bridge is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event for those lucky enough to secure a ticket’

It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has brought joy to thousands and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Scotland’s leading children’s charity. And now, after a six-year hiatus, the famous Barnardo’s Scotland ‘Your View’ event atop the iconic Forth Bridge is bringing back its much-coveted ‘Ultimate Experience’.

Your View – now in its seventh year – affords members of the public one of the most sought after and unique experiences in Scotland; namely the chance to ascend 361 feet up the historic bridge and enjoy an uninterrupted 360-degree panoramic view of the Edinburgh and Fife coastline.

This memorable experience has brought joy to thousands and raised vital funds for the work of Barnardo’s Scotland.

In addition to the popular Your View event over three days in September, the reprised Ultimate Experience, which is limited to a lucky few ticket holders, provides an extended tour which affords visitors the chance to stand at track level of the legendary bridge for some amazing photo opportunities.

And that’s not all: Thereafter, visitors will descend another level for a bridge walk under the railway track on the pathway out on to the Forth.

This remarkable experience culminates with refreshments and a certificate during a further historic talk and exhibition of historical artifacts in the 1930s-listed Bothy which most people will have never even spotted even if they have crossed the bridge many times. This 2½-hour ultimate experience will be offered twice a day across the weekend.

Your View 2025, which is run in conjunction with Network Rail and Balfour Beatty, will take place from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st September, with tickets going on sale at 10am tomorrow (Monday 16th June).

To date, more than 6,000 visitors have experienced the event and there have been around a dozen marriage proposals on the vertiginous viewing platform.

Best of all, though, the event has raised more than £375,000 to fund the work of Barnardo’s Scotland. To find out more, or to book tickets for the event, please visit: www.barnardos.org.uk/events/your-view-forth-bridge.

This year’s Your View event also coincides with a celebration of 200th anniversary of the railway and the 10th anniversary of the Forth Bridge gaining World Heritage status.

Martin Crewe, Director of Barnardo’s Scotland, said: “Your View is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event for those lucky enough to secure a ticket. Not only is it a never-to-be-forgotten experience for those atop the iconic bridge, it is also a crucial fundraiser for Barnardo’s Scotland as we continue to support children, young people and their families throughout the country, notably in our fostering service.

“Right now, Scotland is facing a foster care crisis at an unprecedented rate, with too many children still entering the care system and an insufficient number of loving homes to accommodate them. The impact of the crisis is felt most by children in the care system. Without enough potential foster homes, children are already at risk of being placed in unsuitable situations as a last resort.

“As I am often reminded, tickets for Your View sell out very quickly indeed, so I would urge all of those keen to attend to sign up as quickly as possible. The return of the ‘Ultimate Experience’ this year is particularly exciting as it really does give one a rare behind-the-scenes tour of the bridge that only a precious view people will ever get to witness.

“Your View would not be possible without the generosity of Network Rail and Balfour Beatty, and I wish to thank both organisations and our wonderful volunteers for making this special weekend happen.”

Alan Ross, Network Rail Scotland’s Director of Engineering and Asset Management, added: “Few landmarks are as instantly recognisable and deeply cherished as the Forth Bridge, and as proud custodians, we couldn’t be happier to open it up for such a unique and special event.

“It’s a rare privilege to experience the bridge up close, and even more meaningful knowing that every step to the top supports the incredible work Barnardo’s Scotland does for children and families. We’re delighted again to support this fantastic event and look forward to welcoming visitors up on to one of Scotland’s most iconic structures.”

Colin Hardie, Construction Superintendent for Balfour Beatty, said: “At Balfour Beatty, we are committed to giving back to the communities we serve.

“The Your View event is one example of how we do just that, raising valuable funds to support disadvantaged children and families in Scotland.

“It has been an honour to work alongside Barnardo’s Scotland once again, to offer members of the public this memorable experience on one of the most iconic, unique and admired structures in the world – the Forth Bridge.”

Also featuring over the weekend will be the famous ‘Briggers’. The Briggers are a Forth Bridge research and presentation group of volunteers based in South Queensferry.

Named after the bridge workers, the group was formed to identify the names of the 73 men and boys who died constructing the Forth Bridge, they provide details on the history of the bridge and the people involved in its construction.

For more information on this year’s Your View event, please visit: 

www.barnardos.org.uk/events/your-view-forth-bridge.

For more information on becoming a foster carer with Barnardo’s in Scotland, please visit www.barnardos.org.uk/foster, or call 08000 277 280. The charity’s friendly and supportive staff are available from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm.

At Barnardo’s, our purpose is clear: Changing childhoods and changing lives, so that children, young people, and families are safe, happy, healthy, and hopeful. Last year, we worked with thousands of children across Scotland through more than 150 services and partnerships.

Across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, we provided essential support to 373,200 children, young people, parents and carers through more than 800 services and partnerships across the UK. This included 150-plus services in Scotland.

For more than 150 years, we’ve been here for the children and young people who need us most – bringing love, care and hope into their lives and giving them a place where they feel they belong.

Over the course of the financial year 2023-24, more than 16,000 people volunteered for Barnardo’s across the UK – a total of 1.7 million hours of their time. To donate, volunteer or fundraise, please visit: www.barnardos.org.uk/get-involved/raise-money.

Scottish law firm raises £10,800 for charity Will-writing campaign

A Edinburgh law firm has raised an impressive £10,800 by participating in an annual charity Will-writing campaign – making it the second highest donating firms across Scotland this year.

McEwan Fraser Legal has taken part in the Will Aid campaign since 2019, raising a grand total of £23,555, by volunteering their time and expertise to write Wills and, instead of charging their usual fees for writing basic Wills, inviting clients to make a donation to Will Aid.

The funds raised go to Will Aid’s partner charities, which support a range of important causes, from providing humanitarian aid to protecting vulnerable children here in the UK.

Ken McEwan from the firm, said: “Taking part in Will Aid is something we look forward to each year. It’s a fantastic opportunity to give back -not only by helping people secure their future with a professionally written Will but also by raising funds for charities that make a real impact.

“Our team is incredibly passionate about supporting charities, and knowing our efforts are helping both our community and those further afield is truly rewarding. We are delighted to have played our part in this year’s campaign and to have raised such a significant amount.”

Since its launch in 1988, Will Aid has raised more than £24 million in donations, with millions more pledged in charitable legacies, thanks to the generosity of participating solicitors.

Lauren Poole, chair of Will Aid, said: “A huge well done to McEwan Fraser Legal for their incredible fundraising efforts this year.

“It’s inspiring to see so many legal professionals come together to make a difference – helping people gain peace of mind with a professionally written Will while supporting charities that change lives.

“We’re grateful to every solicitor who gives their time to this campaign, and on behalf of our partner charities, I’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to McEwan Fraser Legal and all the firms who participated this year.”

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s campaign director, added: “This year’s Will Aid campaign has been another resounding success, thanks to the dedication of firms like McEwan Fraser Legal.

“Their generosity and commitment mean that more people can get the will they need while also supporting crucial charitable work. It’s wonderful to see such enthusiasm for giving back.”

Will Aid takes place every November and involves solicitors waiving the fee for writing a basic will and instead inviting clients to make an upfront donation to Will Aid.

The suggested donation for a basic single Will is £100, and £180 for a pair of mirror Wills. 

Donations are shared between Will Aid’s partner charities: Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF and Trócaire.

To meet growing demand, Will Aid is always looking for more solicitors to take part. For more information, visit www.willaid.org.uk.

Lorna strikes gold in epic Cairngorms challenge

Lorna gets gold at Cateran Yomp endurance event in aid of soldiers, veterans and their families, and is set to become top fundraiser for Army charity

Lorna Coulter from West Lothian has completed one of her toughest challenges yet – the 2025 24-hour Cateran Yomp in Perthshire in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund’s (ABF) support for soldiers, veterans and their families.

She joined nearly 1,100 people gathering in the Cairngorms on Friday 6th June, the anniversary of D-Day, to take on the gruelling endurance event this weekend – walking non-stop for up to 54 miles over 24 hours, to support soldiers, veterans and their families.

Based on the infamous long-distance military training march, the event attracts international participants and supporters from across the UK to hike the scenic but challenging terrain of the historic Cateran Trail in Perthshire. Lorna and her fellow participants faced Scotland’s famous “Four Seasons in a Day” as they trekked through the Trail’s beautiful hills and glens through the day and night for 22, 36, or 54 miles in aid of the Army’s national charity.

The Cateran Yomp is now in its 14th year and, since2011,Yomp participants and sponsors have raised over £5m for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). This year’s youngest ‘Yomper’ was aged 16, and the oldest participant was born in August 1944, the same birth month and year as the founding of the charity.

With four Yomps already under her belt, Lorna, 53, was delighted to bag her fifth ‘gold’ at the event by walking with her teammates, Lorna Frame and David Balfour, to complete the full distance.

Lorna and her husband Andrew Coulter, a former officer/soldier NCO in the 1st Battalion, the Irish Guards, are long-term supporters of military charities, and have seen at firsthand the importance of support for those who have served or continue to do so.

This has motivated Lorna to raise over £8,500 for the Army’s national charity – making her the top fundraiser so far for this year’s Yomp. She puts this achievement down to the generosity of her family, friends and colleagues from Edinburgh-based legal firm, Anderson Strathern LLP.

Lorna says: “The Cateran Yomp is special, there’s incredible camaraderie. Veterans often face challenges, particularly with their mental health and some get a raw deal. I’m so grateful to everyone who’s helped me raise funds for the ABF, which gives far-reaching support for veterans, as well as serving soldiers and their families.”

The Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) provides a lifetime of support for soldiers, veterans and their families who are in need or facing hardship. Last year (FY 24/25) it helped over 80,000 people in 52 different countries through its grants to individuals and organisations including Scottish-based charities, Erskine and Bravehound.

Starting from Blairgowrie at 6am on Saturday 7th June and ending in the early hours of Sunday morning, the event challenged teams of brave souls from as far afield as the USA, Georgia, Ukraine, Canada and Denmark, and all over the UK to walk side by side on the 54-mile route around the foothills of the Cairngorms.

The event attracted teams from 40 Scottish, UK and international businesses and was sponsored by Arnold Clark and Blairgowrie- based company Castle Water.  The Cateran Yomp also works with a range of local sponsors who donate gifts in kind for the event, including Gin Bothy.

Reflecting on an incredible weekend, Major General Tim Hyams CB OBE, Chief Executive of the Army Benevolent Fund, said: “At this year’s Cateran Yomp, over 1,000 people, including more than 350 serving soldiers, crossed the start line to walk or run for up to 54 miles in 24 hours across the Cairngorms.

“The Army Benevolent Fund relies on the generosity of our supporters to ensure that soldiers, former soldiers, and their families have the opportunity to avoid hardship and enjoy independence and dignity. 

“The support we receive from individual participants, and the organisations that not only sponsor the Yomp but also encourage their staff to take part, is vital. I am extremely grateful to every single participant; all of whom have demonstrated teamwork as well as mental and physical resilience.  Every single step helps our mission: to be there for soldiers, for life.”

Yompers gathered this year on the anniversary of D-Day before setting off on Saturday 7th June, and the event takes place ahead of VJ Day in August, marking the end of the Second World War in the East.

The Army Benevolent Fund was set up 80 years ago, so that brave servicemen and women would never face the post-war hardships experienced by veterans of the First World War. As thousands of ex-service men and women returned home, the Army Benevolent Fund was there with the help some needed. Its founding purpose remains unchanged today, and the welfare of soldiers, veterans, and their families is at the heart of its work.

There’s still time to show your support for Lorna’s fundraising efforts by donating here: Army Benevolent Fund – Lorna Coulter

Over 1,100 tackle army’s “toughest” 24-hour challenge in support of soldiers, veterans and their families

Endurance event for Army’s national charity began on D-Day anniversary

Over 1,100 people gathered in the Cairngorms on Friday 6th June, the anniversary of D-Day, before taking on their “toughest ever” challenge on Saturday 7th June – walking non-stop for 22, 36, or 54 miles over 24 hours through the Cairngorms, to support soldiers, veterans and their families.

Based on the infamous long-distance military training march, the event attracts international participants and supporters from across the UK to hike the scenic but challenging terrain of the Cateran Trail.

The Cateran Yomp is now in its 14th year and, since2011, Yomp participants and sponsors have raised over £4m for the Army Benevolent Fund, which supports soldiers, veterans and their families. This year’s youngest ‘yomper’ is aged 16, and the oldest participant was born in August 1944, the same birth month and year as the founding of the charity.

Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer of the Army Benevolent Fund, said: “This year is set to be one of the toughest and biggest yet for the Cateran Yomp, in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund.

“The charity relies on the generosity of our supporters to ensure that soldiers, former soldiers, and their families have the opportunity to avoid hardship and enjoy independence and dignity.

“The support we receive from individual participants, the local community and the organisations that not only sponsor the Yomp but also encourage their staff to take part, is vital. Every single step helps our mission: to be there for soldiers, for veterans, and for their families, for life.”

The Yomp attracts a range of participants, including Barry Azzopardi, from Devon, a veteran with a four-decade military career. Barry and his son, James, a former soldier, are taking on the Cateran Yomp for the first time. During the event, they will be marking the loss of Barry’s brother who died, aged 11, in 1971 and never grew up to become the soldier he wanted to be.

Barry says: “It’s fitting that I will be taking part in the Yomp on my brother’s anniversary. I enjoyed my years in the Army, and I feel fortunate to have served and survived unscathed. Now I want to give something back.”

Lauren McLean, a headteacher from Cumbria and her colleagueenjoy taking on physical challenges to support a range of charities and promote healthy lifestyles to their pupils. Both have loved ones who were injured in service and have been supported to rebuild their lives by the Army Benevolent Fund.

Lauren said, “After six months training, we are so looking forward to the Yomp. It will be physically tough and mentally challenging.

“However, it is nothing in comparison to the sacrifices our servicemen and women have made, and we want to support them in any way we can by raising funds for this fantastic charity.”

With four Yomps already under her belt, West Lothian-based Lorna Coulter, is hoping to bag her fifth ‘gold’ by completing the full distance of 54 miles in 24 hours with her teammates. She has so far raised over £8,500 – thanks to the generosity of her family, friends and colleagues. 

Lorna says: “The Cateran Yomp is special, there’s incredible camaraderie. Veterans often face challenges, particularly with their mental health and some get a raw deal.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who’s helped me raise funds for the ABF, which gives far-reaching support for veterans, as well as serving soldiers and their families.”

The Army Benevolent Fund is here to support the Army community through life’s challenges – such as bereavement, getting back to work, elderly care, and much more besides. Last year, the ABF supported over 80,000 veterans, soldiers and their families in the UK and 51 countries around the world through its grants to individuals and other organisations, including several based in Scotland, such as Erskine and Bravehound.

Army veteran, mountaineer and ABF supporter, Mac Mackay, from Dornoch, is this year’s Cateran Yomp Ambassador and will be leading a team of veterans at the Yomp. Mac is the Chair of ABF partner charity, Climb 2 Recovery (C2R), which trains disabled and injured veterans to climb, and to get climbing qualifications.

Mac (69) says: “Without the help of organisations like the ABF, the work that Climb 2 Recovery does with veterans just will not happen.

“Good luck to this year’s Yompers – it’s tough, but the atmosphere gets you to the finishing line. And you will be supporting the Army Benevolent Fund, which is there for soldiers, veterans and their families, facing hardship and need.”

Yompers are gathering this year on the anniversary of D-Day and the event takes place ahead of VJ Day in August, marking the end of the Second World War in the East. The Army Benevolent Fund was set up 80 years ago, so that brave servicemen and women would never face the post-war hardships experienced by veterans of the First World War.

As thousands of ex-service men and women returned home, the Army Benevolent Fund was there with the help some needed. Its founding purpose remains unchanged today, and the welfare of soldiers, veterans, and their families is at the heart of its work.

Vintage Vibes set Cake Grab date

SAVE THE DATE: SUNDAY 13th JULY at LEONARDO MURRAYFIELD

Exciting announcement! After a couple of technical challenges our Cake Grab Event will be taking place on Sunday 13th July at the Leonardo Murrayfield (great parking and public transport).

What’s a cake grab? 100 lovely local folks bring 100 amazing homemade cakes and we all spend the afternoon stuffing our faces, chatting, playing games, drinking tea and having a great time whilst doing good.

Tickets will be a £10 donation to Vintage Vibes to tackle local loneliness in older people. For now, save the date! 🍰

From Kyiv to the Kelpies: Dad conquers fear of heights to protect Scotland’s children

A brave dad who was forced to flee his home in Ukraine is hoping to conquer his fear of heights by abseiling down Scotland’s largest equine sculptures to raise funds for Children First, Scotland’s national children’s charity.

Children First trustee Lloyd Gwishiri is terrified of heights, but says he is curious about abseiling down the Kelpies, having never yet seen them in real life.

After his family was forced to flee their home in Kyiv, Ukraine, in 2022, Lloyd has personal experience of how trauma can deeply impact children.

Lloyd Gwishiri, Trustee for Children 1st

Lloyd added: “The experience of leaving Ukraine was quite traumatising for anyone who went through it at the time. It was hard going through the steps of moving from country to country via public transport. It was quite intense.”

He eventually settled in Brechin, Angus with his family and has been keen to get involved in more fundraising work after becoming active within the local community.

After joining the Children First as a board member nine months ago, Lloyd said taking on the Kelpies would be a “fun and interesting adventure”.

The exciting challenge involves climbing up inside the Kelpies through a maze of ladders, cables and suspended platforms before reaching the top and enjoying the view right from the horse’s mouth. 

After conquering the Kelpies, Lloyd will then free hang abseil or descend via the quick flight rope drop back down to the ground.

Limited spaces are still available and Lloyd is calling on other daredevils to join him.

Lloyd said: “I’m terrified of heights! But I’m quite curious to abseil the Kelpies. I’ve seen photographs of the Kelpies, I’ve been planning to go there but I’ve never seen the Kelpies in person.

“It seems like it is going to be a fun and interesting adventure both to meet more people within Children First. I’m really looking forward to the experience.”

Lloyd’s experience as a member of the Children First board of trustees motivated him to sign up, so that he can raise vital funds to continue protecting Scotland’s children and keep them safe from harm.

Lloyd added: “I know the challenges Children First are facing to raise funds, so that was reason enough for me to participate and do whatever else I can for the charity.

“So many children and families tell us that the support they get from Children First is a lifeline. I want to do all I can to make sure that every child who desperately needs the charity’s help can get it.”

Mary Glasgow said: “Climbing the iconic Kelpies will be an experience like no other and we are delighted that our board member Lloyd is taking on the challenge.

“Every day our teams at Children First hear from children who are coming to us distressed and at risk of serious harm. Each year we provide practical, emotional and financial support to thousands of children and families across Scotland through our national support line and in their homes, schools and communities.

“Every penny raised by Lloyd and his fellow Children First Kelpies champions will help change a child’s life. If you can join them, please sign up today. Together we can give children the help they need to enjoy a safer brighter future.”

To sign up to the Kelpies’ Challenge and support Children First can visit http://childrenfirst.org.uk/events or call 0345 10 80 111.

Six Midlothian mums take on the Kelpies Challenge for Children First

Six mums from the Midlothian area are climbing the Kelpies to raise funds for Scotland’s national children’s charity. 

The brave mums are taking on the challenge of a lifetime, having had first-hand experience of the life-changing difference the charity can make to children and their families.  

Children First provides practical, emotional and financial support to thousands of children and families across Scotland through its national support line and in their homes, schools and communities. 

The Children First Midlothian support group, which helps families move on together from a range of challenges has been a “lifeline” for the mums and their families. 

The group focuses on wellbeing activities and the power of community support to help parents having a tough time to overcome challenges like isolation, make friends and gain confidence.  

Rachel, who used to come to the group with her mum before she sadly passed away last year has recently returned for support. Now she is excited to take on the amazing Kelpies Challenge with her friends and Charles Graham, a Children First support worker.  

Rachel said: “The group has been a lifeline to us and helps me get out of the house.”  

Donna shared: “We love the group – it means the world to me and to all of us. It’s amazing and so are the Children First team who run it.” 

Georgina says: “Children First means a lot to me and my kids. This group has been great for me, it’s encouraged me to get out and about and the ladies have been such a great support.” 

Lyndsay added: “When I think about climbing the Kelpies I get nervous but then I remind myself that it can’t be worse than all I’ve been through!” 

Laura shared: “I enjoy coming to the group to get connection with other women who understand.”  

Margaretrose Graham from Children First who runs the group with colleague Charles shared: “I used to attend a support group like this a few years ago and now I’m running this one in Midlothian. 

“I’ve seen the group thrive through thick and thin, and it has been an incredible support to so many families over the years. At Children First we believe when parents do well so do children and that’s why we run support groups like this one. 

“When life is tough and you are feeling isolated and alone, being supported by people in your local community can really make all the difference. This group has helped so many parents and carers to build their confidence and emotional wellbeing so that they and their families can thrive. 

“If you can, please support Children First to help us give children and families across Scotland a brighter future.” 

Four of the women are also running in the Edinburgh Marathon Relay Race later this month to boost funds further for Children First.  

To sponsor these brave mums and support the charity’s work to protect Scotland’s children, please donate here: Laura Stacey is fundraising for Children First 

If you’re interested in conquering the world’s largest equine sculptures, there are still limited places available!  

You can sign up here and find out more about how to get involved in Children First’s fundraising events here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/events or call 0345 10 80 111. 

Husband and wife to cycle over 230 miles to raise funds for charity they credit with giving their baby life 

Paul and Meghan Godsman will take part in bp’s Coast 2 Coast cycle in aid of Simpsons Special Care Babies in Edinburgh 

A couple whose baby son was born nine weeks early are to take part in a Scottish cycling challenge to raise money for the charity which supported them after his premature arrival. 

Paul and Meghan Godsman, whose baby Blake, was born in May 2024, will be part of a 70 strong peloton for the bp Coast 2 Coast cycle in support of Simpsons Special Care Babies at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (RIE). 

Paul, an offshore wind engineer at bp, based in Edinburgh, has completed the annual cycle twice before but Meghan is cycling for the first time. He said: “Although I’ve completed Coast 2 Coast a couple of times prior and seen the incredible amounts of money raised for charity,

I’ve never had that personal connection with the charity before but this year I’ll be cycling in a totally different headspace.” 

Meghan added: “When I first went into labour, Paul was with two members of the bp Coast 2 Coast committee cycling in Inverness so it seems fitting that we will now cycle together with Paul’s colleagues to help raise funds for the charity that saved Blake’s life.”  

After Blake was born, he was admitted to the Simpson Neonatal Unit at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he stayed for nine weeks. Facilities available in the unit meant the couple could also stay there for four weeks, allowing them to be close to their son whilst he was in a critical condition.  

The Neonatal Unit is supported by Simpsons Special Care Babies (SSCB), a charity that exists to enhance the support and advice provided by the NHS to families of babies admitted to the unit from across the country.  

Paul explained how critical SSCB’s support was for them as parents, as well as crediting bp with allowing him to have extended neonatal care leave while Blake was in hospital: “As much as the neonatal unit is there to care for the babies, there is a huge support need for parents who are navigating this terrifying experience,” he said. 

“We were so grateful to stay in one of two parent rooms on the neonatal ward for the first four weeks of Blake’s life when we really needed it. It meant we could wake up and walk along the corridor to be beside him.

“If we’d been driving home to Linlithgow every night, we’d have been an hour away from the hospital should anything happen. That would have put an even bigger strain on us. 

“Our goal is to raise money to help the unit improve its support for parents, refurbish family rooms and facilities and buy specialist equipment. 

“I was also extremely grateful to my employer bp, which allowed me to have extended leave so I could be with my wife and son while he was being cared for in hospital.” 

One in seven babies born in the UK are admitted to a neonatal unit each year due to being born prematurely (before 37 weeks) or full term (after 37 weeks) but requiring specialist lifesaving support.  

Meghan explained how the couple’s experience has changed their outlook and inspired them to support the charity that helped them: “We were naive to the reality of what it felt like to have a baby in the neonatal unit and we were shocked to learn how common this is for families.

“Before Blake was born, we hadn’t realised there are only three centres of excellence in Scotland for babies requiring complex specialist care and people from across the country must travel to come to these centres in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Aberdeen.  

“Now that Blake is out of hospital and doing well, we want to support the charity that gave him life and make sure other parents who find themselves in a similar position can receive the same support we did and go on to experience parenthood like we are now.” 

The 234-mile cycle will take place over three days from 6 June 2025. The endurance challenge, now in its 16th year, has raised more than £2million pounds for charity. 

The cycle which will pass through Aberfeldy, Grantown on Spey and the Lecht this June will raise funds for four charities including Russell Anderson Foundation, the Teddy Bear Development Playgroup and Murtle Market by Camphill School, as well as Simpsons Special Care Babies. 

The challenge is open to cyclists of all abilities with individuals covering their own accommodation and food costs. Each cyclist has a fundraising target of £1,000 and the total fundraising is split between the four charities. 

The group is mainly made up of bp employees as well as bp alumni, representatives from the chosen charities and local organisations. Any money raised by bp employees will be matched by the bp Foundation – doubling the value of their contributions.  

Emma Coffey, trustee at Simpsons Special Care Babies, said: “We can’t thank Paul and Meghan and the Coast 2 Coast team enough for selecting SSCB as one of the charities to benefit from this year’s fundraising. It’s thanks to supporters like them that our specialised staff can continue to provide care for the 750 families who attend the neonatal unit each year. 

“Voluntary donations and fundraising are crucial for SSCB and this donation will help us purchase new specialist equipment such as the latest video laryngoscopes, which allow our staff to better visualise the airways of extremely small babies when inserting breathing tubes. This improves time, comfort and safety and ultimately helps save lives. 

“We wish all the riders the best of luck and look forward to hearing how they get on.” 

To sponsor one of the four Coast 2 Coast charities, you can select your preferred cause and click the link below: 

Russell Anderson Foundation 

Murtle Market by Camphill Schools 

Simpsons Special Care Babies 

The Teddy Bear Development Playgroup

Mental Health Foundation: Ultra Comedy Events

DROP SOME PUNS AND RAISE SOME FUNDS!

Looking for a challenge? Fancy a chuckle? 😂

If you consider yourself a bit of a comedian, and you’re passionate about mental health then our new Ultra comedy events might be for you!

Sign up to receive 8 weeks free training from a professional comic put on a side-splitting performance in front of friends and family, all while raising vital funds to support mental health.

They say laughter is the best medicine, but we know that taking on a challenge that builds confidence is great for self-esteem and wellbeing. 💜

You’ll be joining a community of likeminded people, forming new connections and making memories that you can look back on with a smile.

So, drop some puns and raise some funds!

Read more and sign up here: https://bit.ly/407WyaC

Exclusive Auction Prizes Announced for RHASS Presidential Initiative Charity Dinner

The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) Presidential Initiative, headed up by President George Lyon, Vice Presidents; Margo McGill Scott, Andrew Malcolm, Rob Wainwright, Lord George Robertson and Chaplain Isabell Montgomerie, have announced a spectacular lineup of silent and live auction prizes ahead of their much-anticipated charity dinner to be held on the 21st March in the impressive Donald Malcolm Heritage Centre in Linwood.

The event will raise vital funds that will be divided between RHASS partner charities; the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs’ (SAYFC) Big Build, the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET), RSABI, and Farmstrong Scotland.

This year’s Presidential Team, representing Strathclyde, has curated a unique selection of over 75 auction prizes designed to appeal to a wide audience, from luxury seekers to sports enthusiasts and those in the agricultural community.

Among the standout prizes are:

  • Luxury experiences: An exclusive helicopter ride, a four-ball at Gleneagles, a three ball at Turnberry with afternoon tea, overnight accommodation and a luxury car to drive there, and various luxury breaks across Scotland.
  • Exclusive sports memorabilia: Signed football and rugby tops from Celtic, Rangers, and Glasgow Warriors – a must-have for passionate fans.
  • Agricultural prizes: A vintage plough, straws of sexed semen from Worldwide Sires, and 18 doses of private semen from some of the most sought-after Texel rams in the UK and Texel embryos from Hugh Blackwood & Son.
  • Whisky collectors’ dream: A Johnnie Walker Blue Label 200th Anniversary Cask Strength 60.5 abv NV with a baccarat glass decanter, stopper and booklet and leather presentation case, and cask of Kilchoman whisky.

George Lyon, RHASS President, said: “The Strathclyde Presidential Team has worked hard to bring together an incredible range of auction prizes that reflect the best of Scotland’s heritage, sport, and agriculture.

“I would like to personally thank our sponsors who have given so generously to the auction. We encourage everyone to head to the online auction site to place their bids and support our chosen charities, which carry out so much valuable work in our rural communities.”

Ewan Andrew President, Diageo Supply Chain & Procurement, one of the auction’s generous donors, also shared their excitement: “We are immensely proud to support the RHASS Presidential Initiative and its efforts to raise vital funds for such impactful charities.

“At Diageo, we are proud to support the communities in which we operate. This event not only showcases Scotland’s rich heritage and agricultural excellence but also highlights the importance of collaboration and community spirit.

“We are thrilled to contribute with our unique auction prize and look forward to seeing the positive difference this initiative will make.”

The silent auction opened for bids yesterday (Friday 21 February), allowing participants the opportunity to secure these exclusive prizes while supporting various excellent causes.

Bids will be placed confidentially via an online platform. At the close of the auction, the highest bid for each item will win, and the successful bidders will be notified.

Bidding will close at 11pm on 21 March 2025.

Bids for the live auction prizes can also be placed online and they will be used as the starting bid on the night.

The charity dinner, one of four high-profile events hosted by the Strathclyde Presidential Team, will be a key highlight in their year-long initiative, which will culminate at the 2025 Royal Highland Show.

The major sponsors of the dinner are Diageo, Dunbia Highland Meats, Parks Motor Group, Malcolm Group, and Loch Fyne. There are still a few tickets available for the dinner.

Throughout their tenure, the team has used its year as a platform to showcase how agriculture is leading the way in developing new solutions to support Scotland’s journey to net zero.

For more information on the auction including the full list of lots, and to place a bid, visit https://weareeventpal.com/RHASS2025/home_page.