Legend Paul Hegarty urges Dundonians to sign up for Kiltwalk

DUNDEE United hero Paul Hegarty has taken part in a friendly kick-about by the seaside to launch Kiltwalk in the city.

Paul Hegarty helps launch Dundee Kiltwalk. Picture: Ian Rutherford/Supplied

He is urging urging individuals and businesses across Dundee and ­Tayside to sign up and get walking on 20 August.

He said: “The Royal Bank of ­Scotland Kiltwalk is a brilliant day out, and the Dundee route could be the most ­picturesque of 2017. It’s the perfect opportunity to lace up your walking boots and raise money for charities close to your heart while having fun alongside other kind-hearted folk.”

The Big Stroll – 11 miles – and Wee Wander – six miles – take place on the same day as the 25-mile Mighty Stride, meaning people of all ages and abilities can take part.

The Mighty Stride sets off from the world famous Old Course in St Andrews before heading onto the Fife Coastal Path. The route takes in iconic landmarks such as the Tay Bridge and Broughty Castle, allowing for some picture-perfect moments. All the walks finish at the Kiltwalk Village at Blue Seaway Playground, Monifieth Beach, where a hot meal, a few drinks and a night of entertainment awaits participants.

Funds raised at last year’s Royal Bank of Scotland Kiltwalk went to 282 Scottish children’s charities. This year, even more people will benefit as the Kiltwalk is now open to every Scottish charity.

For every pound raised, £1.40 will go to charity. The extra cash comes after Sir Tom Hunter and The Hunter Foundation generously pledged that 140 per cent of all fundraising at each of the four 2017 Royal Bank of Scotland Kiltwalk events will go to charity.

Whether a walker raises £10, or £100 or more, The Hunter Foundation will add 40 per cent to their fundraising total with absolutely no limit on the amount.

Paul Cooney, chief executive of the Kiltwalk added: “We are thrilled to bring the Kiltwalk to Dundee. Our ambition is to turn the Royal Bank of Scotland Kiltwalk into Scotland’s largest mass participation event, so we’re asking Dundonians of all ages to sign up and get involved.

“With the Dundee Kiltwalk just over a month away it’s the perfect time to start training.”

Kiltwalk has raised more than £3.5 million for charity since 2011.