Kiltwalk: Christian Aid and Bridges Project boosted by fundraiser

The Rev Leslie Milton, minister at St Andrew’s High Church, and The Rev Aaron Moffat-Jackman, priest in charge at St Peter’s Scottish Episcopal Church, tackled The Big Stroll – 14.7 miles – in the recent Edinburgh Kiltwalk.

A group from the Bridges Project on Bogpark Road completed the Mighty Stride – 21 miles – in aid of the project which supports youth work and services in East Lothian and Midlothian.

Mr Milton and Mr Moffat-Jackman joined 20 Kiltwalkers who took part in the event to raise money for international charity Christian Aid.

Mr Milton said: “This is the second time we’ve arranged a team for the Kiltwalk supporting Christian Aid, and this year there were five walkers from Musselburgh churches participating in the larger team from across central Scotland.

“The Big Stroll can be a bit tiring but you get carried along with the enthusiasm of so many others walking together for so many good causes. It’s a great atmosphere, chatting and getting to know people as you walk.

Kiltwalkers Rev Leslie Milton (right) and Rev Aaron Moffat-Jackman (left) helped raise funds for Christian Aid

“I chose to support Christian Aid’s work as it’s an organisation that tackles global injustice and seeks to build hope in some of the world’s poorest communities.

“I’m grateful to all our sponsors – between us in St Andrew’s High we raised well over £1,000.”

Mr Milton’s church on Musselburgh High Street hosted a short “send off” service with prayers, readings and song before the walkers headed to the start line in Fisherrow.

Mr Moffat-Jackman said: “Gathering for worship at St Andrew’s with other Christian Aid supporters before the walk was a real highlight.

“And as we set off and I surveyed the stream of people traipsing from Musselburgh to Murrayfield, I felt that the walk was a timely reminder to me that there is some good in the world; some truth, some justice, some love.

“It was a long walk but a thoroughly enjoyable day and a great opportunity to fundraise for Christian Aid.”

The Bridge Centre Kiltwalkers reach the finishing line

Val Brown, head of Christian Aid Scotland, said: “Huge thanks to everyone who got their kilt on for Christian Aid – it was a fantastic day.

“Events like this are a wonderful way to fundraise, meet other Christian Aid supporters and, above all, have a great day out.

“Every penny raised from the Edinburgh Kiltwalk will go towards our work fighting poverty and injustice – whether that be in South Sudan, Bangladesh or Malawi. Step by step we can change lives.”

The 11-strong group from the Bridges Project, as well as four people from the Garage Conversion Company, the project’s corporate sponsor for the event, started their walk at Bingham, finishing at Murrayfield.

Simen Holm, the project’s fundraising and communications manager, said: “All the donations have not come through yet but we have so far raised more than £1,200 which we are pleased with given that we are in a cost-of-living crisis.

“This will all go towards helping us sustain our services.”