MP IAN MURRAY RECOGNISES EDINBURGH BROTHERS FOR THEIR FUNDRAISING EFFORTS IN SUPPORT OF THE ERIC LIDDELL COMMUNITY
Two remarkable young brothers from Edinburgh, 13-year-old Seb Jellema and 10-year-old Max Jellema, have been presented with Community Hero Awards by Ian Murray, MP for Edinburgh South.
“The awards celebrate their exceptional commitment to the Eric Liddell Community’s Olympic Year Appeal, a key part of the Eric Liddell 100 campaign commemorating the centenary year of the Olympic Hero’s iconic 400m gold medal victory at the 1924 Paris Olympics. Eric Liddell’s triumph earned him the enduring title of ‘The Flying Scotsman’.
Seb and Max have embodied Eric Liddell’s values of passion, compassion, and integrity through their inspiring fundraising challenges. Both brothers have maintained extraordinary daily running challenges, with Seb on day 712 of running and Max on day 347.
As part of the Flying Scots Challenge, a September initiative within the Eric Liddell 100 campaign, the brothers also completed an impressive 100km to raise funds and awareness for the Olympic Year Appeal. This challenge united participants across Scotland in celebrating Eric Liddell’s legacy while supporting the Eric Liddell Community’s work in education, sport, and community service.
Ian Murray MP praised the brothers’ determination: “I was absolutely delighted to present Seb and Max with Community Hero Awards in recognition of their superb efforts for the Eric Liddell Community’s ‘Flying Scots’ Challenge.
“They are a real credit to themselves, their family and the whole of the south of Edinburgh. Well done Seb and Max – keep up the good work!”
Seb and Max’s journey is rooted in their admiration for Eric Liddell, a Scottish Olympic Hero renowned not only for his Olympic victory but also for his values of passion, compassion, and integrity. Earlier this year, Seb and Max were honoured with Eric Liddell 100 medals at a ceremony marking the renaming of a path in Bruntsfield Links to ‘The Eric Liddell Way.’
Reflecting on their sons’ achievements, Claire and Nick Jellema shared: “We couldn’t be prouder of Seb and Max for receiving these Community Hero Awards.
“For them, their daily running challenge isn’t just about physical effort – it’s a source of joy and personal growth. They cherish the time spent outdoors, often in nature, using it as a moment to reset from busy days, catch up with each other, and gain a real sense of accomplishment.
“Max has especially enjoyed connecting his challenge to the incredible legacy of Eric Liddell. Learning about such an inspiring figure and seeing how one person’s story can continue to influence and unite others has been profoundly motivating for him.
“It’s amazing to see our children embodying the values of passion, compassion, and integrity, and being recognised for their efforts means the world to all of us.”
John MacMillan, CEO of the Eric Liddell Community, praised the brothers’ efforts: “Seb and Max have been extraordinary ambassadors for the Eric Liddell Community.
“Their dedication reflects the spirit of Eric Liddell and shows how young people can lead the way in preserving his legacy while making a difference in their communities.”
For those who would like to support the Eric Liddell Community, the charity invites you to contribute directly to its Christmas Appeal, to donate please visit The Eric Liddell Community website at ericliddell.org.