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Daily Record
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Record numbers turn out for Aberdeen's Kiltwalk
A record breaking 6,000 people strode out on two routes to Duthie Park in the city, raising more than £1.2 million in donations for 500 charities. The streets of Aberdeen turned tartan today as thousands took part in this year's Kiltwalk. A record breaking 6,000 people strode out on two routes to Duthie Park in the city, raising more than £1.2 million in donations for 500 charities. The majority set off from Bellfield Park in Banchory at 9am on Super Sunday for the 18-mile Mighty Stride while 1,300 Wee Wanderers set off from Cults Academy to make the four-mile trek to the beauty spot, winding their way alongside the River Dee. Since it was set up by Sir Tom Hunter 10 years ago, Kiltwalk has raised £54 million. Kiltwalk CEO Paul Cooney, said: 'It's incredible that 517 charities here in the North East of Scotland will benefit from today's efforts. Charities of all sizes; the biggest with 325 supporters to countless smaller charities - each with one or two walkers. Every penny, every pound raised plus Gift Aid goes to the causes chosen by the walkers. 'Last year's Aberdeen Kiltwalk raised £1.1 million and we are set to raise even more this year. And Kiltwalk, now in its tenth year since it was rescued by The Hunter Foundation, founded by Sir Tom Hunter, has raised £54.7 million for 4,000 Scottish charities since 2016. 'Thank you for your Kiltwalk kindness.' Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. All Aberdeen Kiltwalkers who registered and fundraised are in with a chance of winning a car worth £30,000 thanks to headline sponsor Arnold Clark. Russell Borrie, Chief Executive Officer of Arnold Clark, said: 'The Kiltwalk continues to make a huge difference to so many communities across Scotland, bringing people together to raise vital funds for charities close to their hearts.' The Kiltwalk also provided four lucky local charities with an additional £5,000 as part of 'the happiest minute at the Kiltwalk'. They were: SensationALL, which offers specially designed play activities, social groups and practical support for people with neurodivergent or complex conditions across northeast Scotland; Charlie House, which helps improve the quality of life for babies, children and young people in the North-east of Scotland with life-limiting conditions; Friends of ANCHOR, established to support patients and staff at Aberdeen's cancer and haematology centre and Kayleigh's Wee Stars, which provides vital financial support to families where a child has a terminal illness, helping them make precious memories during the most difficult times. This year, Kiltwalk is also supporting Sir Chris Hoy's Tour de Four charity cycling event, established by the six-time Olympic gold medallist following his diagnosis of Stage 4 prostate cancer. This means anyone who chooses to walk for Kiltwalk itself in 2025 will see everything they raise, plus eligible Gift Aid, go to five cancer charities nominated by Sir Chris Hoy. The charities are Breast Cancer Now, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Maggie's and Prostate Cancer UK. Next up is St Andrews to Dundee on Sunday, August 17, and Edinburgh on Sunday, September 14.
The Herald Scotland
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Some unflattering comparisons for Scotland to absorb
It was therefore fascinating to read the report on Singapore's economic success recently published by Oxford Economics for The Hunter Foundation. Several columns have already been written in response, with some challenging the relevance of Singapore's experience to the economic challenges we face here in Scotland. I have no doubt that Sir Tom Hunter relishes the debate. The transformation of Singapore's economy is undeniably extraordinary. In 60 years, the country has changed from one of the world's poorest and most resource-limited states into the eighth-richest in the world with a gross domestic product (GDP) per capita 1.4 times higher than the UK. Understanding how this was achieved is well worth our attention. There are some unflattering comparisons for Scotland to absorb; in education outcomes, population health and industry productivity. The quality and efficiency of Singapore's transport infrastructure and the management of its public realm are all immediately apparent to any first-time visitor. Singapore has not just caught up economically with the more established developed countries, it has well surpassed them. The section to which I was especially drawn was that on Singapore's research and innovation. The country now consistently ranks among the top 10 nations of the Global Innovation Index produced by the World Intellectual Property Organisation. This success is underpinned by strong government direction, guided by a long-term innovation strategy that clearly defines national research priorities. Our own delegation met with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) which leads so much of that work. We could see how advanced their thinking is and how much of an advantage there is in having a clear and consistent commitment to developing expertise in a targeted set of technologies. I know the usual argument against government innovation strategies is that governments should not get involved in picking "winners". They will more than likely get it wrong. Well, Singapore offers a compelling counterexample. Take just one case study: in the late 1960s, the Singaporean government decided that the arrival of containerised shipping would transform global trade. In 1969, it committed to build the country's first container terminal and the first in Southeast Asia. That bold decision, starting from a comparatively small port, set Singapore on the road to having one of the largest trading ports in the world, second only to Shanghai for the tonnage it processes. The Hunter Foundation's report argues that Scotland should concentrate its efforts on a small number of high-growth sectors, choosing renewable energy and the low-carbon economy, life sciences and medical technology and software, big data and artificial intelligence (AI). We can debate whether these are the only options. They are all certainly set out in the UK's industrial strategy but so too are advanced manufacturing, financial services and the creative industries. Each offers its own potential for economic growth and global competitiveness. Read more We also have a national network of what are named "catapults" - centres of innovation excellence part-funded by government and spread around the UK, all aiming to find ways of accelerating technology research into commercial exploitation. In Glasgow, for example, the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland, the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, the Satellite Applications Catapult, the Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the Compound Semi-Conductor Applications Catapult are all part of the wider UK network. Without going into the specifics of each technology, my point is simple: we have a rich set of options we could exploit and these are all emerging from our genuinely world- leading academic institutions. We already have examples of agencies like Singapore's A*STAR. The UK Government has been doing the consultation work to decide what the national industrial strategy should be. The point is that we have all the ingredients needed to rise to the challenge posed by The Hunter Foundation report and to position Scotland at the forefront of high-potential sectors. I would add one other ingredient that we are experimenting with in Glasgow. Both the University of Strathclyde and the University of Glasgow are using the innovation district concept to nurture complex systems of innovation support. The idea is to bring academic research teams, entrepreneurs, businesses both large and small, investors, government agencies and civic bodies all together in relatively small geographies - making it more likely they will collaborate and turn technology into commercial success. Glasgow has three very different innovation districts already in place; in our city centre, along the River Clyde, and at Glasgow Airport. One consequence has been the emergence of Glasgow Technology Week – delivering more than 40 events exploring all that is happening in the city region. And Glasgow Technology Week is taking place right now. There are many aspects of The Hunter Foundation report that are deeply sobering but I would argue at the very least that we can make meaningful and early progress in developing our innovation economy. Singapore currently ranks fourth in the Global Innovation Index, with the UK close behind at fifth, which is evidence that the foundations are already in place. The Scottish Government's international trade programme is helping small and medium-sized companies grow their exports. It is also giving Scottish companies and chambers of commerce the chance to learn how other countries are developing their innovation economies. We will be back in Singapore in the autumn and we will be reflecting on the insights and challenges set out in The Hunter Foundation Report. Stuart Patrick is chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce
Scotsman
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Scotland steps up: How the Kiltwalk movement is inspiring thousands this summer with spirit and tartan
Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Across Scotland, the Kiltwalk phenomenon has become more than just a charity event - it's a national movement of compassion, community and giving. Every year, thousands of people don tartan, lace up their walking boots and take to the streets, trails, and scenic paths in a shared mission to support those in need. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Staff from homeless charity, Cyrenians, encouraged participants along the Edinburgh Kiltwalk route | Edinburgh Kiltwalk Since its inception, the Kiltwalk has raised £53 million for more than 4,000 Scottish charities, thanks to the generosity of walkers and donors, and through the backing of The Hunter Foundation. What started as a single event has grown into a series of fundraising walks across Scotland, drawing people from all walks of life, united by helping others. A sea of tartan swept through the streets of Glasgow last weekend and along the scenic paths between Clydebank and Balloch, as 19,000 walkers of all ages and background stepped forward in a united show of compassion and community. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The event, an annual fixture in Scotland's charitable calendar, was more than just a walk, but a testament to the enduring power of giving. Among those joining the thousands of walkers was comedian and broadcaster Paddy McGuinness, who added his voice and steps to the cause on Saturday. And the journey isn't over. With more Kiltwalk events planned in Aberdeen on Sunday, June 1, from St Andrews to Dundee on Sunday, August 17, and Edinburgh on Sunday, September 14, thousands more are expected to take part, bringing hope - and vital funds - to charities across the nation. Each event offers routes for all abilities and brings communities together to make an impact. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This year, the fundraising carries a particularly poignant weight. All proceeds from the 2025 Kiltwalks, along with any eligible Gift Aid, will benefit five cancer charities chosen by six-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy, who was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer in 2023. Sir Chris Hoy admits his cancer diagnosis has put the pressure of his cycling career into perspective. Picture: Aaron Chown/PA Wire. The five cancer charities are Breast Cancer Now, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Maggie's and Prostate Cancer UK. Sir Chris was last year told the disease had spread to his bones and was terminal, giving him anywhere between two and four years to live. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In a video message recorded for Kiltwalkers and posted in February, Sir Chris said: 'The Kiltwalk is an unforgettable experience that takes place in Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh, so sign up now, and choose kiltwalk. Thank you, and good luck.' The cyclist has said about his cancer diagnosis: 'When you are young, fit and healthy, you assume you are immune to any of that. You think that is for further down the line. When you are 50, that is when you starting thinking about prostate cancer and checking. 'Even with family history, I had my grandpa and my dad, but actually I should have been thinking about it sooner.' Philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, whose foundation plays a key role in the Kiltwalk's success, described the associated events as 'magic', saying: 'In every community across Scotland, there are people who need a wee hand up, and there are good folks like you who get up in the morning and help them.'
The Independent
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Thousands of walkers in kilts stride out to raise millions for charity
Thousands of walkers in kilts have stepped out this weekend in events which have raised more than £3 million for charity. Streets and paths between Glasgow and Loch Lomond were awash with tartan as people took part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk 2025 on Sunday, following a Kiltwalk between Clydebank and Balloch on Saturday. In total 19,000 people walking for 1,100 Scottish charities took part over the weekend. This year, Kiltwalk is also supporting Sir Chris Hoy's Tour de Four charity cycling event, which means that anyone who walks for Kiltwalk in 2025 will see everything they raise, plus eligible gift aid, go to five cancer charities nominated by Sir Chris. The six-time Olympic champion cyclist was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in 2023, and was told last year that it has spread to his bones and is terminal. The Hunter Foundation, founded by philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, underwrites Kiltwalk, ensuring that all money raised by walkers goes to the charities of their choice, plus gift aid. Sir Tom, who led the walkers on both days, said: 'In the 10 years that The Hunter Foundation has been involved with Kiltwalk, you and our foundation have raised an incredible £53 million for 4,000 Scottish charities. 'I believe the magic of Kiltwalk is quite simple: in every community across Scotland, there are people who need a wee hand up, and there are good folks like you who get up in the morning and help them. 'All the Kiltwalk does is simply connect you. There isn't a prouder Scotsman on the planet than me this morning.' Comedian and broadcaster Paddy McGuinness was among those who took part in the Kiltwalk on Saturday. So far the events this weekend have raised £3 million and this figure is expected to rise in the coming days. Further Kiltwalks will take place in the coming months, in Aberdeen on Sunday June 1, St Andrews to Dundee on Sunday August 17 and Edinburgh on Sunday September 14.
Powys County Times
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Powys County Times
Thousands of walkers in kilts stride out to raise millions for charity
Thousands of walkers in kilts have stepped out this weekend in events which have raised more than £3 million for charity. Streets and paths between Glasgow and Loch Lomond were awash with tartan as people took part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk 2025 on Sunday, following a Kiltwalk between Clydebank and Balloch on Saturday. In total 19,000 people walking for 1,100 Scottish charities took part over the weekend. This year, Kiltwalk is also supporting Sir Chris Hoy's Tour de Four charity cycling event, which means that anyone who walks for Kiltwalk in 2025 will see everything they raise, plus eligible gift aid, go to five cancer charities nominated by Sir Chris. The six-time Olympic champion cyclist was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in 2023, and was told last year that it has spread to his bones and is terminal. The Hunter Foundation, founded by philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, underwrites Kiltwalk, ensuring that all money raised by walkers goes to the charities of their choice, plus gift aid. Sir Tom, who led the walkers on both days, said: 'In the 10 years that The Hunter Foundation has been involved with Kiltwalk, you and our foundation have raised an incredible £53 million for 4,000 Scottish charities. 'I believe the magic of Kiltwalk is quite simple: in every community across Scotland, there are people who need a wee hand up, and there are good folks like you who get up in the morning and help them. 'All the Kiltwalk does is simply connect you. There isn't a prouder Scotsman on the planet than me this morning.' Comedian and broadcaster Paddy McGuinness was among those who took part in the Kiltwalk on Saturday. So far the events this weekend have raised £3 million and this figure is expected to rise in the coming days. Further Kiltwalks will take place in the coming months, in Aberdeen on Sunday June 1, St Andrews to Dundee on Sunday August 17 and Edinburgh on Sunday September 14.
