A FIVE kilometre run at Whitekirk Hill, organised by former Commando Gerry Taggart, 81, raised £600 for an armed forces charity.

It is now hoped the success of the event could boost the chances of a regular Parkrun-style weekly run being held in the North Berwick area.

The run was in aid of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), a charity providing lifelong support to serving men and women and veterans from the British Armed Forces and their families or dependents.

Having moved to North Berwick with his wife Mo from Worcestershire last year, Gerry was surprised at a lack of organised running events in the town.

A veteran of 250 Parkruns himself – and having finished eighth in this month’s London Marathon in the over-80s’ category – Gerry was delighted to organise his own run around Whitekirk Hill recently.

He said: “The measure of how it went was the breadth of the smiles at the end.

“Despite the ‘wicked hill’ and the false start, we had no complaints; only thanks from the 66 who ran.

“It’s got the makings of a ‘must-run’ Parkrun course. That’ll happen when we raise the start-up fee.”

Gerry thanked “Catriona” for managing the timings, the marshals, “Linda” for managing the prizes, Pipe Major Beetle and Drum Sergeant Ted for “adding a touch of spirit” and Arlene at Whitekirk Hill.

He added: “I’d like to say thank you to all my friends here in East Lothian for supporting the 5k recently and for your moral support on the London Marathon.

“I was very surprised my pedestrian pace got me eighth place in my age group. I’ll have to try harder next time! Now, let’s get our parkrun going here in North Berwick!”