Fundraising Santa Stroll organised for North Inch

Nov 27 2009 by Alison Lowson, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A PERTH man is putting his heart into a seasonal fund-raiser in the city next month.

Drew Falconer is organising a Santa Stroll round the North Inch on Sunday, December 6.

And all the proceeds from the 5k event will go towards the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

The money will help to provide more BHF nurses to support patients and families suffering from heart disease.

Drew, who is charity champion at Scottish Widows in Edinburgh, said yesterday: “I’m really looking forward to the ‘OK for 5K’ event, which will involve three laps of the North Inch, starting from Bell’s Sports Centre at 11.30am. It should be a great, fun day for all involved.

“Heart disease is the UK’s single biggest killer and touches the lives of many people, either directly or indirectly, at some time.

“We recognise the importance of doing our bit to help the BHF support and care for all those affected.”

The event is part of a two-year fund-raising campaign with the BHF, Lloyds Banking Group’s charity of the year.

The campaign, which hopes to raise £2 million, will see staff at the bank’s offices and branches in the UK raising cash to fund 15 BHF heart nurses.

So far they have raised enough for 12 nurses, including one in Dundee.

Drew, who is a keen St Johnstone fan, took part in a Santa Jog around the Inch last year, again raising cash for the BHF.

He said: “Apart from being a great fun event, it raised a lot of money for the charity.

“When I heard that it wasn't on the BHF's calendar of events for this year, I decided to try and organise a small-scale event myself .

“So, with the support of family and friends, the walk will take place on December 6.

“I was delighted when local MP Pete Wishart came on board and not only agreed to start the walk but to take part in it as well.

“With Pete's involvement – and support from Derek McInnes and St Johnstone – I'm sure the event will be a big success.

“Why not join us on the day? Come along, be bright and festive!”

For details and sponsor forms, contact Drew Falconer on 01738 441541.