ABERDEEN, Scotland — In a remarkable display of generosity and community spirit, over 5,200 walkers donned their kilts and marched through the streets of Aberdeen on Sunday, raising more than £1 million ($1.3 million) for 474 Scottish charities during the annual Kiltwalk event.
Picture source: thekiltwalk.co.uk
The Kiltwalk, a series of charity walks held across Scotland, has become a beloved tradition that brings together people from all walks of life to support local causes.
Participants, known as “Kiltwalkers,” choose a charity to fundraise for and walk a designated route while wearing kilts or other tartan-themed attire.
In Aberdeen, a record-breaking 5,260 Kiltwalkers took part in the event, with 4,200 “Mighty Striders” setting off from Duthie Park at 9 a.m. to walk 18 miles to Banchory.
Another 1,058 “Wee Wanderers” began their 4-mile journey at 11 a.m. from Crathes Castle, following the picturesque River Dee to the finish line at Bellfield Park in Banchory.
“We’re really touched by the huge number of people walking here today supporting mainly local charities who need financial support now more than ever,” said Paul Cooney, CEO of Kiltwalk. “Aberdeen Kiltwalk has grown exponentially in recent years; with 4,000 more walkers today than on our first in 2016. In that time, 20,691 Aberdeen Kiltwalkers raised £3.6 million for 1,005 charities.”
The event received a significant boost from Sir Tom Hunter and The Hunter Foundation, who added another £1 million to the funds raised in Aberdeen, bringing the grand total to £4.6 million over the past eight years.
Two charities, A Bear Named Buttony and Abernecessities, received an unexpected surprise during “the happiest minute at Kiltwalk” giveaway, each being awarded a £5,000 cash boost courtesy of Sir Tom Hunter and The Hunter Foundation. A Bear Named Buttony supports children and young people with stomas, while Abernecessities operates a baby bank that provides essential items to disadvantaged families.
Corporate sponsors played a crucial role in the event’s success, with Lidl providing snacks at four pit stops along the route and Arnold Clark offering a £30,000 car as a prize for one lucky Kiltwalker.
The Royal Bank of Scotland ensured the event’s sustainability by serving meals in compostable pots and working with the Binn Group to recycle and reuse all rubbish, ensuring nothing went to landfill.
“Kiltwalk makes such a huge difference to communities across Scotland, and we’re delighted to lend our support to such a fantastic event,” said Eddie Hawthorne, Chief Executive and Group Managing Director of Arnold Clark.
Kiltwalkers raised money for charities of their choice, with donations going directly to the chosen causes, plus Gift Aid. This means that charities will receive up to 125% of all funds raised during the event.
The Aberdeen Kiltwalk is one of four such events held annually in Scotland, with upcoming walks scheduled for Dundee on August 11 and Edinburgh on September 15.
The incredible success of the Aberdeen event demonstrates the power of community and the enduring spirit of giving that defines the Kiltwalk tradition.
Reference: Kiltwalk News Release
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