Hundreds brave elements for charity Kiltwalk

Nearly 2000 kilted walkers have trekked up to 26 miles in foul weather to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for children’s charities.

Thousands of people bracved the elements to take part in this year's Edinburgh Kiltwalk. Pic: Alex Hewitt

Now in its third year, the Kiltwalk has raised £2.4m since its launch for good causes.

Today’s Kiltwalk was led off by Team Aine, who have been inspired by seven year-old Aine McDermott to raise more than £50,000.

Aine suffers from a rare condition that causes her to stop breathing when she sleeps.

Kayley Aitken, Kirsty Rafferty, Lisanne Robertson and Jill Blair from Edinburgh who took part in the Kiltwalk.Pic: Alex Hewitt

Mum Leah Forbes, from Penicuik, Midlothian, said: “It was absolutely amazing starting at Murrayfield with Aine, the Team and the other kids.

“It was so special for us and marked the start of a really amazing Kiltwalk day.”

The Kiltwalk’s Chairman Michael Ure said: “This, our second Kiltwalk of the year, has been another fantastic day.

“To have Team Aine lead the way was wonderful as they have been true ambassadors of everything The Kiltwalk stands for.

“But every single Walker who took part in the walk through Edinburgh has been a hero.

“All their efforts will contribute greatly towards helping improve the lives of vulnerable children across Scotland.”

This year’s 26-mile Full Walk and 13-mile Half Walk both started and finished at the BT Murrayfield Stadium, while the six-mile Our Wee Walk started at Gypsy Brae Recreational Ground and finished at the home of Scottish rugby.

Also among the walkers was 32-strong Team Jak, walking in memory of Jak Trueman, the 15 year-old who died of a rare cancer T-Cell Lymphoma in February.

His last wish was for his family and friends to raise funds to build a centre for sick children and youngsters called Jak’s Den.

Lara Haken, a friend of Jak’s family who organised the team, said: “We are so honoured to have been able to take part in the Kiltwalk today in memory of an extraordinary young man like Jak and to help make sure his final wishes come true

“It has been so lovely to see everyone out in their kilts despite the weather and especially to see my Daughter Ella and her friend Freya Harness.

“They are just 10 and 11, the youngest taking part in the Half Walk and I have think that’s a tremendous achievement.”