East Saltoun man to run 100km ultramarathon for brother

Chris McIntosh, 42, from East Saltoun, will take on the challenge from Glasgow to Edinburgh on Saturday, October 4, in tribute to his brother Grant, who died in 2017.

The route, which begins at Pacific Quay in Glasgow and finishes in Portobello, is expected to take about 16 hours and will begin at 4am.

Mr McIntosh said: "When Grant died by suicide in 2017, it was a big shock to us all.

"It was devastating to get that news and we were all pretty lost.

"I definitely withdrew when it happened, because you just don’t know what to do.

"Looking back, I would tell myself to just keep talking.

"I’ve learned that, if you’re talking to the right people and you’re vulnerable to the right people, you’ll feel stronger for it.

"Everyone suffers in silence and what we’re trying to do is bring these discussions to the forefront.

"The main thing for us is making sure that other people feel comfortable enough to talk.

"We don’t want people to feel like they’re on their own."

Chris with his brother Grant, who died by suicide in 2017(Image: Supplied)

The run is part of a wider fundraising campaign for SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health).

Mr McIntosh and a group of friends have formed a team called Always Forward, producing merchandise and taking part in endurance events to raise funds.

Last year, they completed a 50km ultramarathon, and this year decided to double the distance.

Mr McIntosh said: "We decided to double the distance from last year’s 50km to 100km, and found the easiest route was Glasgow to Edinburgh.

"We might also add in some spontaneous workouts to make sure everyone’s putting in effort."

Nicole Parry, community and events fundraiser at SAMH, said: "The most important thing we can do to prevent suicide in Scotland is to talk.

"By sharing his story, Chris is starting a crucial discussion which can save lives, as well as keeping Grant’s memory alive."

SAMH trained more than 3,100 people in suicide prevention last year.

Ms Parry said: "Through his fundraising, Chris is helping us grow our life-saving services and reach even more people."

In Scotland, two people die by suicide every day, and it is estimated that each death affects a further 135 people.

Anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide can call the Samaritans on 116 123 or dial 999 in an emergency.