Glasgow's Kiltwalk sees nearly 20,000 walkers raise millions

Glasgow's Kiltwalk has raised £3 million as 19,000 walkers hit the streets to support 1100 charities.

This weekend's turnout was so huge that organisers extended the event to two days, making it the biggest Kiltwalk in history.

(Image: Supplied)

Sir Tom Hunter, whose Hunter Foundation underwrites the Kiltwalk to ensure 100% of donations plus Gift Aid go directly to charities, celebrated the milestone.

He said: “In the 10 years that The Hunter Foundation has been involved with Kiltwalk, you and our foundation have raised an incredible £53m for 4000 Scottish charities.

“I believe the magic of Kiltwalk is quite simple: in every community across Scotland, there are people who need a wee hand up, and there are good folks like you who get up in the morning and help them.

"All the Kiltwalk does is simply connect you. There isn’t a prouder Scotsman on the planet than me this morning.”

Russell Borrie, leading sponsor Arnold Clark’s CEO, praised the walkers for their impact across Scottish communities, while TV presenter Paddy McGuinness rallied the crowd at the starting line.

Beneficiaries of Kiltwalk's fundraising power include Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, which has received over £1.5 million from nearly 6500 walkers.

Chief executive Kirsten Watson called Kiltwalk "a beacon of hope" for Scottish charities.

(Image: Supplied)(Image: Supplied) Even smaller charities are feeling the difference, with A Bear Named Buttony raising over £11,000, helping 200 more children living with stomas.

This year, walkers will also support Sir Chris Hoy’s Tour de Four campaign, raising funds for five cancer charities following the Olympian’s stage four prostate cancer diagnosis.

To join or learn more, visit www.thekiltwalk.co.uk.