Tartan Trekkers take to Deeside for CLAN
People from throughout Deeside and the North-east are being encouraged to pull on their walking boots to support a popular annual event.
The third annual Tartan Trek takes place on Saturday May, 12, in the stunning Balmoral Estate, Royal Deeside in support of CLAN Cancer Support.
Participants of all fitness levels are invited to take part in the event which aims to bring people together to enjoy the great outdoors, and to show that gentle exercise can be beneficial to many of CLAN’s clients, while also raising awareness, and funds, for the Aberdeen-based charity.
Walkers can choose between two routes of either 6km or 15km through the grounds of Balmoral Castle and on Land Rover tracks.
Organisers of the event also hope that it will serve to emphasis the benefits that can be gained from enjoying the countryside and taking part in exercise, even if just gentle walks.
Duncan Tunstall, from Aboyne, one of the team behind the event which is organised by local volunteers, believes the huge benefits gained from exercise can often be under-rated and that people should be encouraged, as much as possible, to make the most of the fantastic countryside.
He said: “When I moved to the area I was bowled over by what we had access to from our doorstep. When I received my cancer diagnosis more than 12 years ago I was determined to continue my hobbies where possible, which included walking, climbing and running. I cannot emphasise how important embracing exercise has been to me. I strongly feel the benefits of the outdoors were key to ensuring I remained positive. I also met so many lovely people through walking, people who have become good friends and a great support network.
“The Tartan Trek not only aims to raise awareness of CLAN Cancer Support’s amazing work within Deeside and beyond, but we also hope that the event can help to bring people together and encourage them to enjoy the amazing scenery we have around the Balmoral area. Walking is a form of exercise which is accessible to everyone – regardless of age, fitness or circumstance – and we hope the Tartan Trek will encourage others to take up walking and enjoy its many health benefits.
“Whether you want to come along to meet others who may have been touched by cancer, show your support to CLAN or just enjoy the walk in great company you will be made most welcome.
“I would also like to encourage anyone who feels they may not be able to take on the walk to come along and support those taking part. One thing that comes from experiencing something like cancer is the importance of community support and spirit which really is a key part of the event.”
The walk starts at 11.00am on Saturday, May 12, with walkers meeting from 10.00am onwards for registration at the rear of the Tourist Information Centre in Crathie.
The event has a minimum registration fee of £5 to take part. Any walkers wishing to collect sponsorship for CLAN Cancer Support are welcome to do so.
For further information about the event please visit www.clanhouse.org, contact Val Eveleigh-Ray at val.eveleigh@tesco.net or on 01975 651 709, Linda Drever at thedrevers@btinternet.com or visit the CLAN Cancer Support Centre, Ballater.
CLAN is an independent charity which offers support to anyone affected by cancer. Based in Aberdeen, the charity covers the whole of Grampian, Orkney and Shetland. CLAN is also developing services in the community and now has a presence in Ballater, Inverurie, Peterhead, Stonehaven, Orkney and Shetland.
For more information about CLAN please telephone 01224 647 000 or visit www.clanhouse.org
