Falkirk strollers return from Highland hike with five grand for Strathcarron

Strathie’s Bog Strollers, gathered at Forth Valley College last week morning before setting off to Milngavie to begin their five days and four nights adventure along the world famous 96-mile trail.

As it turned out, the going was a lot harder than any of the strollers had bargained for, but they pressed on regardless to raise cash for Strathcarron Hospice and honour the memory of their pal Scott Strathie, who sadly died from terminal brain cancer at the hospice last December.

Alan Gibson, Scott’s Cousin, said: “It was tough – a bit harder than I expected. It was a real hike and there was some climbing involved too. We just expected it to be a walk, but it was really mentally draining.

“There was a couple of injuries along the way and a lot of sore feet by the time we got into Fort William on Tuesday – but there was also a lot of good memories.”

And what would Scott have thought of Alan and the guys – Alan Cramb Snr, Colin Gibson, Brian McLeish, John Malone, David Martin, Scott Paterson, John Redding, Alexander Turnbull and Colin Zandbergen – battling blisters and midges in his name?

"He would have thought we were crazy for doing it,” laughed Alan.

Scott was the driving force behind the endeavour.

Alan said: “He was a hugely popular character and had many friends. I chatted to a few of them and we decided we wanted to do something in Scott’s memory and to also raise funds for Strathcarron Hospice where Scott spent his final days.

“So on July 31 – a day after what would have been Scott’s 40th birthday – the group we named Strathie’s Bog Strollers set off and walked the West Highland Way. It was a challenge close to all our hearts.

“We wanted to raise money and a wee bit of awareness and appreciation for Strathcarron Hospice and the job they do helping people.”

The total raised for the hospice stands at around £4200, but that will increase and hopefully top the £5000 mark.

Alan said: “We are going to keep the fundraising page open and a few of the lads will be collecting sponsorship when they go back to work.”

Visit the fundraisers section of www.strathcarronhospice.net to donate to the cause.