Falkirk school's virtual 10k run raises huge sum for Strathcarron Hospice

Pupils and teachers at St Mungo’s High School took part in the Fankerton facility’s first-ever virtual 10k run and raised an incredible £4796 in sponsorship money in the process.

Thirty-three staff members and students were joined by more than 200 other participants in the event on October 4.

There was further reason for positivity when S4 pupil Caitlyn Christie recorded the fastest 10k time of any runner of school age under the age of 16.

The 14-year-old crossed the finish line after just 42 minutes and 37 seconds and received the Paul Canavan Memorial Cup and Schools Shield for her efforts.

Former Falkirk West MP, Dennis Canavan, presented the trophies in memory of his son, who died aged 16 in Strathcarron Hospice in 1989.

He said: “The Paul Canavan Cup and the Strathcarron Schools Shield have been in existence now for over 30 years.

“Previous winners have included young runners who went on to represent their country, including an Olympic athlete and a Commonwealth Games marathon runner.

“But this is only the second time that the trophies have been won by a female competitor and the first time that they have been won by someone as young as 14.

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“I congratulate Caitlyn on her magnificent performance in the hope that her success will encourage more young people to follow her example by helping to raise funds for such a good cause.

“I also extend my congratulations to all the staff and pupils of St Mungo's High School who helped to raise a grand total.”

Kirsty Park, St Mungo’s High School PE teacher, said: “With all the various restrictions on events in place at the moment, we were delighted to get a group of staff and pupils to take part in the Strathcarron virtual 10k.

“As a school community, we pride ourselves in our ability to support local charities so I am proud that we managed to raise a great sum for Strathcarron as it is a charity which is close to many of our hearts.

“It was an added bonus that our S4 pupil, Caitlyn, won these two awards. She is a fantastic ambassador for our school and an excellent role model.

“Thanks to all our staff and pupils who took part and those who were kind enough to sponsor us, also to Strathcarron for organising the event.”

Claire Kennedy, Strathcarron Hospice community fundraiser, added: “I’d like to congratulate Caitlyn on her fantastic achievement in winning both the Paul Canavan Memorial Cup and Schools Shield.

“We are absolutely blown away by the generosity and support of the whole St Mungo’s team in raising £4796 for Strathcarron and extend our thanks to everyone who made this possible.

“With this support, we will be able to care for seven people in their own homes in their last two weeks of life.

“Our Hospice@Home service is funded by voluntary donations and quite simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of the local community.

“Our heartfelt thanks to everyone for taking part and raising such a fantastic amount to help us continue to care for local people at the end of their lives.”

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