Thousands of Scots get their walking shoes on for Glasgow's Kiltwalk

The sun is shining for those taking part in the fundraiser!

Kilt Walk
Author: Nicolle CasselsPublished 24th Apr 2022
Last updated 24th Apr 2022

Thousands of Scots are taking part in Glasgow's Kiltwalk today to raise money for charity while getting their steps up.

The event, where walkers dressed in kilts to take on routes up to 23 miles long, saw £3 million drummed up for 685 charities across Scotland.

It's after fundraisers received a 50% top-up from The Hunter Foundation on every £1 collected.

The latest fundraising figures mean the event has now raised more than £32 million for 2,850 charities over the last six years.

READ MORE: Scottish Government urges Scots to complete census to avoid £1,000 fine

The fundraiser kicks off this morning from various points across the city, with some people taking on a huge 22-mile walk.

Other routes include The Big Stroll which is 14.37 miles and The Wee Wander at 3 miles.

The Mighty Stride route starts at Glasgow Green, The Big Stroll leaves from Clydebank and The Wee Wander starts at Lomond Shores.

All three walks will make their way to the finish line at the scenic Balloch.

Kiltwalk

Frances Grant is taking on the walking challenge with her sister and niece to raise money for our charity Cash for Kids.

She tells us they want to help local families struggling with the rising cost of living.

READ MORE: Fire crews tackle blaze on double-decker bus in Glasgow city centre

Frances said: "This is our first time taking part, we decided to do it because we wanted to raise money for kids in the local area given the rising costs of living."

She added: "If you haven't donated yet please do because a little goes a long way.

"Good luck from us to you, I hope you all have a brilliant day."

Famous faces who took part included First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, broadcaster Jackie Bird and River City actor Stephen Purdon.

This year marks the return of Kiltwalks in Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh following the pandemic.

READ MORE: 'Extreme' wildfire risk across Scotland this weekend

A virtual Kiltwalk Weekend is planned for October after the success of virtual events that were held during lockdown.

People of all ages are taking part, with pupils and staff at Bishopbriggs Academy fundraising for Young Lives vs Cancer.

Bishopbriggs Academy have got their kilts on for the walk!

Sir Tom Hunter, from The Hunter Foundation, said: "I regard the success of Kiltwalk as one of the foundation's greatest achievements. It was a joy to see so many of our Kiltwalk heroes out in their tartan this morning at Glasgow Green.

"Their kindness means the world to me and to Scotland's charities, and I can't stress enough how much it's appreciated in these toughest of times.

"After a challenging few years, Scotland's charities benefit from every donation so Kiltwalkers should be very proud of the difference they have made today."

Hear all the latest news from across Glasgow and the West on the hour, every hour, at Clyde 1. Listen on FM, via our Radio Clyde app, on your DAB radio, online at Clyde1.com, or say ‘Play Clyde 1’ on your Smart Speaker.