Tough challenges being faced by one of the leading charity events in Scotland have been eased this week with news of a partnership with Sir Tom Hunter.
The Kiltwalk started life as a one-off march by members of Scottish Football’s ‘Tartan Army’ aimed at raising funds for children’s charities, but rapidly grew into a national event including the highly popular Speyside Kiltwalk which this year sets out from Buckie on August 30.
However, the movement came under threat in recent months with its organisation coming under increasing scrutiny after four charity partners announced in February that they wished to withdraw their support for the events.
Aberlour, Sick Kids Friends Foundation, Clic Sargent and Cash for Kids all ended their agreements with the charity amid claims that they were receiving less than they had expected.
However, the charities pointed out that their withdrawal as official partners did not prevent anyone taking part in the walks to raise funding on their behalf.
Now, however, The Kiltwalk has revealed a new partnership with Sir Tom Hunter’s philanthropic venture which has agreed to support the events in its strategic development to accelerate the charity’s commitment to helping improve the lives of Scotland’s children.
Kiltwalk organisers say that the partnership will ensure they will be able to continue its fantastic record of benefitting children across Scotland.
Ewan Hunter, chief executive of the Hunter Foundation, commented: “The Kiltwalk is a force for good in Scotland and we are delighted to play a small part in its current and future development.
“It’s time for Scotland to get walking and make a difference for those young people most in need.”
The Kiltwalk’s Chairman, Michael Ure, welcomed the partnership, saying: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with such a well respected organisation with a reputation for a high level of professionalism.
“It’s no secret The Kiltwalk has been through a tough couple of months, but we firmly believe that by working in partnership with the Hunter Foundation we will blossom into the amazing fundraising vehicle for Scotland’s children’s charities that we always intended to be.”