First-aiders for Elgin's Scotia Medical Group take on Speyside Way trek to boost funds
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VOLUNTEERS for an Elgin first aid charity have gone the extra mile to raise thousands of pounds through a Speyside marathon walk.
Twelve volunteers for Scotia Medical Group hiked 27 miles of the Speyside Way on Saturday, August 21, to boost their efforts to provide free first aid training to community groups.
To add to the challenge the trekkers carried a basket stretcher laden with around 61.5kg of kit, which is equivalent to the weight of an average adult.
The team set off from Buckie to Fochabers before heading towards Aberlour, finishing at Linn Falls, taking a total of 14 hours. They were supported by two additional volunteers in back-up vehicles.
The money raised will allow the charity to expand its network of lifesavers as well as deliver first aid training to groups, including Police Scotland Youth Volunteers.
Daniel Wood, Scotia's trustee and chairman, said: "I’m glad to say the day went really well – with an early start and mild weather we made good progress.
"Unfortunately, at Boat o' Brig, we took the decision to temporarily lose the stretcher, over Ben Aigan, due to safety and a change in weather.
"Without our volunteers we wouldn’t function and we’re proud to have such dedicated volunteers."
He added: "Raising an amazing £4,065, plus the gift aid we will be able to receive, will allow the charity to buy vital equipment for our volunteers to deliver medical treatment and equip them with the uniform required for this.
"It will also allow us to purchase more training equipment to expand our delivering of training to the general public and community groups.
"As a small charity in its humble beginnings we can’t thank everyone enough for their support and we can’t wait to start meeting more of the community as we grow stronger."
Daniel thanked Tesco Buckie and a work colleague for food donations on the day.
