Funds raised by the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund event will support veterans and their families across Scotland, through Help for Heroes.
Over one hundred and fifty supporters joined the Seath Family, under the distinctive cherry blossoms in Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline, and completed virtual routes across the world, including as far as Australia, on Sunday 27 April.
From welcoming keen runners to friends and family walking, pushing prams or dog walking together, stewarded and encouraged by 1145 Air Cadet Squadron, the event generated a wonderful spirit of commemoration, community and positive action.
Held on an annual basis on London Marathon Sunday, the fundraiser commemorates the passing of Captain Seath, who lived and grew up in Dunfermline, and died running the event in support of the charity, Help for Heroes, nine years ago, in 2016.
His decision to run in support of the charity was inspired by a keen interest in meeting the wellbeing needs of men and women under his command, having returned from operations in Afghanistan, and how the third sector supported those with life-changing physical injuries.
Since then, over £350,000 has been raised for the veterans’ Charity, in David’s name.
Funds raised continue to deliver vital mental health support, health and social care services, employability and skills training, camaraderie events and vital family support grants across Scotland, as well as helping to overcome life-changing physical injuries.
Over 15,000 men and women leave the British armed forces annually.
Whilst a significant proportion of the 220,000 veterans living in Scotland are of retirement age, growing numbers of younger veterans’ families presenting a wider range of complex support needs.
Founded by his brother, Gary Seath, events like last weekend’s 5K serve to keep his brother’s memory alive, and ensure veterans, no matter what age they happen to be, experience no barriers to thriving in civilian life because of their service across Scotland.
“When you consider we’re now nine years on from David’s tragic passing, it’s nothing short of incredible, and indeed overwhelming, to see over one hundred and fifty supporters come out to raise a phenomenal amount in his name.
“David was a local Dunfermline boy supported by so many people from the wonderful new city of Dunfermline, but it’s incredible to consider supporters come from as far as places like Glasgow and beyond to join us on the day and see friends and family complete virtual routes across the globe.
“I think it speaks volumes for the respect so many have for David as an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, and the commando spirit we have embodied in showing courage, determination and selfless commitment to establish a legacy supporting those whom he cared most passionately about.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude to all who continue to support our cause and for keeping David’s memory alive. The funds we have raised are making a massive difference in ensuring no veteran is left behind in accessing vital support.”
Finlay MacDonald made the journey from Glasgow to support the event, presently studying at Aberdeen University where Captain Seath completed a Masters qualification in international politics, who said:
“The support for Help for Heroes and the compassion of the people involved is truly inspiring. Listening to David’s story and speaking to his family was very motivational. Although Dunfermline’s hills are unforgiving, the charity run was a great experience and meeting everyone involved with Help for heroes has inspired me to support such an amazing cause.”
Inspired by the Command spirit, Sarah-Jayne Tunstall, Niece of Captain David Seath, achieved a running personal best, who said:
“I am always amazed at the level of support and enthusiasm shown by supporters of the fund. It fills me with immense pride to run amongst them, knowing that David’s legacy continues to shine and provide vital support to veterans and their families.
“The run highlights the incredible sense of community built over the past 9 years and is such an outlet for hope and positivity, in the aftermath of a tragic event. Personally, the run felt particularly poignant this year, as I achieved my 5k PB with a sub-30 finish time – an accomplishment I know David would be proud of, if not equally shocked! We miss David every day but keeping his legacy alive and supporting incredible veterans across the UK, is nothing short of amazing.”
The next event on our fundraising calendar is the ever-popular quiz at Garvock House Hotel, Dunfermline on Friday 15 November.