5,500 Aberdeen Kiltwalkers turn out for 500 Scottish Charities

5,500 Aberdeen Kiltwalkers turn out for 500 Scottish Charities

5,500 people of all ages took to the streets and pathways of Aberdeen and the ‘Shire on Sunday June 7 for the annual Aberdeen Kiltwalk. And they’re on course to match last year’s incredible fundraising figure of well over £1 million for 500 local charities.

4,200 heroes, many wearing a touch of tartan, left Bellfield Park in Banchory at 9am on an 18 mile Mighty Stride to Aberdeen while 1,300 Kiltwalkers set off from Cults Academy at 10.30am in a four mile Wee Wander to Kiltwalk’s Finish Line at Duthie Park.

Major local charities like Friends of Anchor, The Archie Foundation and Clan Cancer Support had hundreds of walkers on the route while countless small individual charities were supported along the way in what is the area’s biggest charity fundraiser.

1,300 Wee Wanderers set off from Cults Academy at 10.30am on the four-mile trek to the scenic Duthie Park.

Kiltwalk CEO Paul Cooney said: "What another incredible Aberdeen Kiltwalk.

"Every step taken today will help make a difference. Thanks to the support of The Hunter Foundation, every penny raised, plus Gift Aid, goes directly to the charities chosen by our walkers, ensuring their efforts have the greatest possible impact.

Since Sir Tom Hunter stepped in to save Kiltwalk 10 years ago, we've now raised more than £63.5 million for 4,400 charities across Scotland.

"To everyone who walked, volunteered, donated, sponsored or cheered from the sidelines today – thank you. Your generosity, commitment and Kiltwalk kindness are helping charities continue their vital work here in Grampian."

Earlier in the year, Sir Tom shared his ambition for Kiltwalk to reach £100 million in the next five years to “be there” for Scotland’s third sector in these times of global and economic uncertainty.

The Hunter Foundation underwrites Kiltwalk, ensuring that every penny the walkers raise goes to the charities of their choice, plus gift aid. It’s the lowest-cost platform for raising charity funds in the country.

Mighty Striders set off early from the beautiful surrounding of Bellfield Park winding their way alongside the River Dee before ending at Duthie Park. Four pit stops offered delicious snacks from Kiltwalk’s Official Supermarket partner, Lidl. Entertainment was provided by local performers, dance groups, charities and corporate sponsors.

Thanks to Kiltwalk’s Headline sponsor, Arnold Clark, a deserving Kiltwalker was stunned to discover their chosen charity would receive a massive £10,000 surprise boost.

Karrie Williams, fundraising for Grampian Deaf Children’s Society, was delighted to win the cash prize that will support many deaf children, young people and their families across Aberdeen, Grampian and the North East of Scotland.

And one of the many Arnold Clark employees taking part is also going to be selected as a surprise winner for their charity. In total, an extra £20,000 bonus for local charities.

Russell Borrie, Chief Executive Officer at Arnold Clark, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be marking our eleventh year as headline sponsor of the Kiltwalk.

"The Aberdeen Kiltwalk is always a highlight, with the north-east community coming together in an incredible show of support for charities and local causes.

"This year, there’s even more to look forward to, as two lucky walkers will each win an extra £10,000 for their charities.

"Aberdeen always delivers a fantastic atmosphere, and it’s inspiring to see people of all ages step up, take on the challenge and make a real difference. Good luck to everyone taking part!"

Once again Kiltwalk is supporting Sir Chris Hoy’s Tour de 4 campaign established following his diagnosis with stage 4 prostate cancer. Over 300 people chose to walk in Aberdeen for our greatest Olympian’s five chosen cancer charities.

Next up is the St Andrews to Dundee Kiltwalk on Sunday 16 August and then Edinburgh on Sunday 13 September. It’s still just £20 to walk thanks to The Hunter Foundation’s and Arnold Clark’s support.

For more information or to register for a future Kiltwalk, visit: https://www.thekiltwalk.co.uk.