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Gail Walshe was one of more than 130 Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K attendees, who chose to go the extra mile by organising her own sponsored run as part of the event.

Marking the occasion alongside family and friends, Gail’s epic fundraising effort raised more than £400, contributing towards over £3,000 raised during “Super Sunday” last month through our Memorial 5K, individual donations, Gail’s sponsored run, and the incredible efforts of London Marathon runners Ben and Alex.

Gail shared her story, training journey and reflections on supporting David’s legacy.

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Tell us about your personal link to David and inspiration for taking on your sponsored run in support of his legacy?

I met David at a family event years ago, as he and my husband Michael are second cousins. I was inspired to sign up for the run after seeing the posts marking David’s ten-year anniversary and realising it coincided with my 57th birthday. A plan was hatched to ask for sponsorship instead of gifts. My daughter Katie and my son Jack’s girlfriend Lauren ran alongside me, while Jack and Michael supported us with our dog Harris.

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You had been doing a lot of training in preparation for taking on the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K?

Last June, I started quietly working on my health as I was badly out of shape and struggling. It became a case of slow and steady, with a focus on nutrition to fuel my training. At first, I couldn’t run the length of myself, but over the months I gradually built up my pace and distance until I reached 5K.

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So, how was your overall experience taking part in the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K?

It was a great experience taking part in the Captain David Seath Memorial Run. Listening to David’s family at the start, paying tribute to him and sharing the impact the fund is making, was incredibly emotional. We also heard from one of the beneficiaries of Help for Heroes, who spoke about how much the charity had helped him. That was so inspiring to hear.

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Would you agree the 5K route requires everyone to show some of that commando spirit that’s often talked about?

The route definitely has its challenges worthy of the Commando spirit. I thought we were only running uphill twice — it turns out it was three times! But I was determined to keep going.

Another part of the Commando spirit is “cheerfulness in the face of adversity,” and I think that sums up the whole event perfectly. The adversity David’s family have faced is unimaginable, yet they continue to focus on helping others with such positivity. It’s incredibly humbling.

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How does it feel to raise such an incredible amount in support of David’s legacy and the impact it will achieve?

I’m so glad I had the courage to put myself out there and ask for sponsorship. I can’t thank everyone enough for their kind words and generous donations. I really hope it goes some way towards making a difference for the charity recipients and continuing David’s legacy in such a positive way.

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What’s your message to anyone thinking about getting involved in supporting David’s legacy through their own fundraising?

I’d encourage anyone to get involved in the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund events and fundraising. It’s easy to join in, and everyone is made to feel so welcome. No matter how big or small your contribution may seem, it all helps to continue an incredible legacy and make a real difference to others.

Donations to Gail’s epic fundraising efforts can still be made, via Gary Seath is fundraising for Help for Heroes

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We’ve come a long way together — but the journey continues.

The next event on the horizon is the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz, which takes place on Friday 20 November 2026. Tickets for the hugely popular event are on sale now.

On Sunday 26 April 2026, the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk returned to Pittencrieff Park, bringing together over 130 supporters from across Fife and beyond for a powerful day of remembrance, community, and fundraising.

Set against the backdrop of the park’s iconic cherry blossoms, participants of all ages and abilities gathered to honour the legacy of Captain David Seath: an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery who tragically passed away in 2016 while running the London Marathon in support of Help for Heroes.

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A Decade of Legacy, Marked in Motion

This year’s event held particular significance, marking ten years since David’s passing and a decade of unwavering commitment from his family, friends, and supporters to continue the work he so passionately believed in.

As an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, David embodied the commando spirit: one rooted in resilience, responsibility, and action. In the face of tragedy, that same ethos has guided those closest to him: to turn loss into something positive, to be the first to adapt, respond and overcome.

Since its creation, the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund has raised more than £350,000 to support veterans and their families across Scotland, providing vital assistance ranging from mental health support and rehabilitation to employment training and family grants.

The 2026 5K was not just a run, but a living reflection of that impact.

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An Event for Everyone

At its heart, the event is about inclusion. The 5K route welcomed runners, walkers, families, veterans, and supporters alike; all passionate to take on the 5K Park Run at a pace that worked for them.

Starting at 10:30am, participants set off around the scenic park, united by a shared purpose: to honour David’s memory and contribute to a cause that continues to rebuild the lives of those who have served in British Armed Forces.

The atmosphere throughout the morning was one of community, reflection, camaraderie, and quiet determination, echoing the commando values David lived by.

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“Super Sunday” – A Collective Effort

This year’s event formed part of what supporters fondly dubbed “Super Sunday” – a remarkable combined fundraising effort that brought together multiple initiatives in David’s name.

Alongside the 5K in Pittencrieff Park, the day also included a special sponsored run, generous individual donations, and two dedicated runners who completed the London Marathon in support of the Fund.

Together, these efforts raised over £3,000, a testament to the continued generosity and commitment of the community. Each contribution, whether a step taken, a mile run, or a donation given, played a vital role in driving David’s legacy forward.

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A Special Guest

The event was also honoured by the presence of David Dent MBE (pictured together with Libby, Peter and Gary Seath above), a Help for Heroes ambassador, who travelled to Dunfermline to take part in the 5K.

Completing the course alongside participants, he later shared a few words, reflecting on the importance of community, resilience, and continued support for the armed forces family:

“A remarkable achievement and a deeply fitting tribute to Captain David Seath. Particular recognition is due to Gary, his brother, and to Libby and Peter, his parents, whose continued leadership, commitment, and quiet determination have sustained David’s legacy over many years. Their dedication reflects the values David lived by.

As a commando, David embodied service, discipline, and selflessness. The way his family has channelled those values into sustained support for veterans is both powerful and enduring. This community effort shows how one life of service can continue to have real impact long after, through collective action and shared purpose.”

His presence and words added a meaningful connection to the wider impact of the Fund and the cause it continues to support.

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Voices from the Day

The impact of the event was perhaps best captured by those who took part:

“It was amazing to be part of a truly special community fundraising event. What’s been achieved over the past ten years in support of David’s legacy is phenomenal- the Seath family should be very proud of what’s been achieved when it comes to supporting veterans in David’s name through Help for Heroes.”

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Continuing David’s Mission

Reflecting on the purpose behind the Fund, Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, shared:

“The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund was established to continue the race David started. It exists to ensure veterans are valued, supported, empowered, and never disadvantaged because of their Service.

We are deeply humbled when we see the city of Dunfermline turn out every year to support David’s legacy. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who continues going the extra mile in continuing to run the race that David started.

From rehabilitation, home adaptations and career development, to wider work across Scotland addressing complex needs, employability, training, community-building, mental health and family support, David’s legacy continues to rebuild lives.

Although the war may be over, for many, the battle continues. Last year alone, funds raised in David’s name helped respond to a 36% increase in requests for support across Scotland, reaching over 300 veterans.

When you read their powerful stories about recovery, I believe David would be incredibly proud; not only of what’s been achieved in his name, but of the resilience shown by those rebuilding their lives.”

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Community at the Core

The strength of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund lies in its community. From local families and businesses to members of the armed forces and veteran networks, the event once again demonstrated the collective power of people coming together for good.

That same commando spirit; adapting, responding, and overcoming together continues to define the Fund and the people behind it.

Organisers encouraged supporters to “give just one hour” to be part of something meaningful; an invitation that continues to resonate year after year.

That simple act of showing up has helped build a remarkable force for good over the past decade.

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Looking Ahead

The 2026 event was more than a milestone—it was a reminder of how far the community has come, and how much more can be achieved together.

Every step taken in Pittencrieff Park was a step forward in continuing David’s legacy: one built on courage, selflessness, and an enduring commitment to others.

We’ve come a long way together—but the journey continues.

The next event on the horizon is The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz, which takes place on Friday 20 November 2026 – Tickets for the highly popular event are on sale now.

In marking ten years since the tragic passing of Captain David Seath, Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, reflects on what’s been achieved through David’s legacy.

Ten years ago today, the unimaginable happened. There are no words to truly articulate that experience. Suffice to say, life has not been the same since.

David was deeply passionate about supporting veterans to overcome physical and psychological trauma. That is why he chose to run the London Marathon in support of Help for Heroes.

Nobody even paused to consider that he would tragically collapse 3.2 miles shot of the finished line. He was fit, prepared and ready.

As an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, I felt a responsibility to embody the commando spirit, to turn tragedy into something positive. It was imperative to be the first to adapt, respond and overcome.

As a keen runner, I know David would have done the same thing if it had happened to me, so setting up the fund, and devoting 150% into it was a non-negotiable, whilst providing an all-important positive focus.

The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund was established to continue the race David started. It exists to ensure veterans are valued, supported, empowered, and never disadvantaged because of their Service.

None of this would have been possible without Help for Heroes. I am eternally grateful to Mark Elliot, the late Bryn Parry, and so many others who have supported us in driving David’s legacy forward.

Adversity teaches you many things; often lessons you might never otherwise consider.

Firstly, people are incredible. The generosity, fundraising, and kindness we’ve experienced has been nothing short of phenomenal. The City of Dunfermline shows up year after year for our annual 5K and Quiz Night, and we are deeply grateful. It is equally humbling to see support from across Scotland, the United Kingdom, and beyond.

Raising over £350,000 is both fulfilling and deeply emotional. I am immensely proud of the remarkable fundraising community that has grown – an unstoppable, relentless force for good. It has always been important that everyone who supports this cause feels seen, heard, and valued. To everyone reading this who has gone the extra mile, thank you.

Secondly, a person’s spirit can live on. Hundreds of veterans have received life-changing support in David’s name through Help for Heroes. From Quick Reaction Fund grants supporting rehabilitation, home adaptations, and career development, to broader work across Scotland addressing complex needs, employability, training, community-building, mental health, family support, and more.

Although the war may be over, for many, the battle continues. Last year alone, funds raised in David’s name helped respond to a 36% increase in requests for support across Scotland, reaching over 300 veterans.

When you read their powerful stories about recovery, I believe David would be incredibly proud; not only of what’s been achieved in his name, but of the resilience shown by those rebuilding their lives.

Finally, community matters. Collaborative power provides the voltage behind everything. In difficult times, community becomes more than support. it becomes the force that sustains momentum over years, not just moments. Whether through our annual events, personal challenges, or the hundreds, if not thousands. of people who have fundraised in David’s name, the commitment and kindness shown has been truly inspiring.

One moment that stands out is a man who joined us for the final stages of our 60K challenge just weeks after heart surgery. We had our concerns, but his determination never wavered. It was a powerful example of the commando spirit in action.

Looking ahead, there is still much to be done. Around 15,000 people leave the Armed Forces each year. While some choose to leave, others do not, including around 2,000 medically discharged annually.

With the average age of leaving now just 31, many face the challenge of finding work, housing, purpose, and a place in civilian life.

That is why your continued support matters. Through David’s legacy, we aim to:

• Empower veterans to realise their potential in civilian life
• Provide access to tailored support across public and voluntary sectors
• Create opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society

I said it earlier, and I will say it again – thank you so much so your continued support – you are all nothing short of amazing. Without your support, there would be no legacy.

What we have achieved together is truly remarkable. I hope you will continue to stand with us in supporting veterans in David’s name, through Help for Heroes.

If you can make it along to our 5K fundraising event in Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline on Sunday 26 April, we look forward to seeing you there. It’s an inclusive, family friendly event for everyone to come together to ensure we continue to support those whom David cared most passionately about.

We’ve covered a lot of ground together. Let’s keep going.  Ubique.

Could you give just one hour on Sunday 26 April?

Join us for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk in Pittencrieff Park:
https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52

Ben Armitage is taking on the London Marathon is support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund this Sunday. This is a personal reflection from someone who knew David through Sandhurst and later serving together in the Royal Artillery.

From training courses at Larkhill to time spent in Tidworth, their friendship grew through shared experiences, tough days, and plenty of time in and out of uniform.

As he takes on the London Marathon in David’s memory, he talks openly about their bond, the challenge of training, and what it means to run 26 miles in honour of a friend who clearly left a lasting impact.

1. Tell us a little about your link with David and the inspiration behind getting the trainers on?
I first met David when attending Sandhurst, and we later completed various Royal Artillery courses together at Larkhill. He was also based in Tidworth at the same time as me while I was with 1RHA and he was with 19RA. Over the years we spent more than a few nights out together and he was a dependable gym buddy!

2. How’s your training going for the London Marathon? What’s currently on your running track list?
I’m not a natural runner, far from it, so it’s safe to say it’s been a challenge. Leaving the military in 2015, running isn’t a regular part of my spare time. However, I’m slowly making progress and starting to feel better running longer distance at a steady pace. As for playlists, I find listening to podcasts helpful and then something more upbeat when I’m starting to tire. Naturally ‘Eye of the Tiger’ has been played more than a couple of times!

3. What would you think David would say to give you that little bit of extra ‘unique’ encouragement to get through the marathon?
I’m pretty confident he’d be laughing at the thought of me running the marathon! He knew that I wasn’t a big fan of cardio other than on the rugby pitch, so he’d probably be playing on that as motivation.

4. What’s your thoughts that ten years on David’s legacy continues to go from-strength-to-strength supporting veterans and their families through H4H?
It’s crazy to think it’s been a decade since we lost Dave. He was such a remarkable and larger-than-life character and it’s wonderful that his legacy continues to inspire and support veterans and their families.

5. On what will prove a poignant day, we expect you will feel a range of emotions as you progress through the city and, indeed, cross the finish line?
I’m sure as I struggle through the 26 miles knowing that the challenge and pain will be largely offset by knowing I’m doing this in memory of Dave. I joined a large group finishing the last 3 miles back in 2016, and it’s an honour to do the full marathon 10 years on.

6. What would you say to encourage people to get behind your efforts on Sun 26 April?
This challenge is ultimately to support and celebrate David Seath’s life. He had a huge impact on so many people and would be grateful for any donations to help keep his legacy alive. I’m not a natural runner so hopefully the thought of someone carrying over 100kg and covering 26 miles will encourage people to donate!

Make a donation to Ben’s fundraising page.

We’re now going to hear from Sarah Jayne, David’s cousin—someone who shared a close and special bond with him, an active member of our fundraising community, and today she’s going to share a few reflections.

1. Tell us about your relationship to David – Tell us more about him and any specific memories you’d like to share.

I’m David’s cousin—but truthfully, it always felt more like being his little sister, especially with the amount he and Gary would take the mick out of me.

David had this way of lighting up every room. I remember noticing it from such a young age. He had a real presence—whether he was cracking jokes, right in the middle of a lively debate, or offering advice that genuinely meant something. I always felt incredibly lucky to call him family.

In September 2015, I started university and turned 18—and I was finally allowed to have David as a friend on Facebook. We spoke often through freshers and those first few weeks of classes. In equal measure, he supported me, encouraged me… and, at times, probably led me slightly astray. He was the ultimate hype man before a night out.

As adults, we didn’t get nearly enough time together. But I hope he’d be proud of what I’ve achieved over the last ten years. And if not, I know he’d at least be pretty happy about the tattoo in his honour—and the fact his “boozed singing” playlist is still on regular rotation on my Spotify.

2. This year, we’re marking ten years of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund – what’s your reflections on all that’s been achieved in supporting veterans and their families in David’s name, through Help for Heroes?

David left an incredible mark on this world in just 31 years. And through the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, that legacy is very much still alive.

The support that’s been given to wounded and sick veterans—and their families—over the past decade is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s hard to put into words just how much this would have meant to him, but I know, without question, he would be so proud.

For me, there’s real comfort in being able to take grief and channel it into something so positive. Ten years of incredible work—and many more to come.

3. We’ve established a massive fundraising community in that time – tell us about fundraising you’ve been involved in?

Soon after David passed, I found comfort in running. It made me feel close to him. It was one of the few things that could quiet my mind during such a difficult time.

Since then, I’ve run for David every year on his anniversary—different distances, different challenges. During lockdown, when I couldn’t get home to Scotland, I ran 9 kilometres with 9 kilograms on my back. As a relatively new runner, it was tough—but also strangely empowering. For a moment, I could almost imagine what it was like to be David, out on exercise with a weighted pack.

Running has become my way of remembering him—but also of contributing, in my own way, to the incredible fundraising community that’s grown around his legacy.

4. What’s your message to encourage people to come along to Pittencrieff Park to support our 5K Run/Walk event on Sunday 26 April?

No matter who you are, where you come from, or how fit you think you are—this event is for you.

It’s a chance to be part of something that genuinely changes lives. You don’t need to do anything extreme—you don’t need to jump out of a plane—just come along, give an hour of your time, walk or run, and be part of something meaningful.

So please—come along, take part, or support in any way you can. It means more than I can properly express—not just to us as a family, but to Help for Heroes, and to the veterans whose lives are changed through this support.

Could you give just one hour on Sunday 26 April?

Join us for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk in Pittencrieff Park:
https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52

Every step helps continue David’s legacy.

Introducing Alex who is taking on his second London Marathon in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund – someone who served alongside Captain David Seath and knew him from the very beginning of his Army journey.

From Sandhurst through early regimental life, they shared the kind of daily grind that forges strong friendships – living side by side, training together, and pushing each other along the way.

That bond has endured, and it’s a big part of why Alex is here today, taking on his second London Marathon in support of David’s legacy.

In true fashion, he’s approached it with discipline, a bit of grit through some tough winter miles, and – no doubt – an awareness that Dave would’ve had plenty to say about it along the way.

As we start London Marathon Week, we caught up with Alex to ask him some questions.

Q: Tell us about your connection to Dave and why you’re running the marathon
I first met Dave when we joined Sandhurst together. We were in the same platoon—so we saw a lot of each other, all day, every day. We went on to commission into the Royal Artillery, trained together again, and then—by chance—ended up posted to sister regiments, living next door to each other.

So it’s fair to say we shared a lot. A lot of experiences, a lot of formative years… and a very strong friendship. That’s really why I’m running the marathon – to honour that friendship.

Dave meant a lot to me. And this feels like a way of showing that.

Alex features to the left in this image, completing the 2017 London Marathon with his friend, David Jones.

Q: How has training been?
Training’s gone well – mainly because I’ve been pretty disciplined. I picked a programme and, so far, I’ve stuck to it – every mile bar one. But those January and February mornings… eight miles before work… they’ve been tough. I’m a big F1 fan, so a lot of it’s been powered by podcasts – which has probably been the only thing getting me round some days.

Q: What would Dave be saying to you now?
If Dave were here, his encouragement would’ve been… direct. He was fiercely competitive and never shy about giving his mates a bit of tough love—very much in the spirit of the Army. But underneath that, it would’ve been about pride. Pride in seeing a friend putting in the effort and getting after it.

Q: What does Dave legacy mean to you?
Dave and Gary’s legacy is incredible. Dave was a brilliant bloke—someone who genuinely cared about leading well and doing right by his people. And Gary has carried that forward in an extraordinary way. The serving and veteran community has a lot to thank the Seaths for.

Q: What are your reflections, 10 years on regarding David’s legacy?
Ten years on… it’s hard to believe it’s been that long. I find myself thinking about the young man Dave was— and the young man I was back then too. I think about everything that’s happened over the last decade… and how much I’d have liked to share that time with him.

And, in a way, I can’t help but laugh— because somehow, even now, Dave’s still managing to make me do horrible things to my body. Some things never change.

Q: What’s your message to inspire donations?
Help for Heroes is a fantastic charity, and the need is still very real. So if you can—please give something.

Make a donation via Alex’s Just Giving Page

This year marks ten years since the tragic passing of Captain David Seath. In this series of website articles, his family share their reflections on his life, legacy and all that has been achieved in his memory.

In this piece, David’s aunt, Morag, reflects on the joy he brought to those around him, the impact of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund established in his honour, and how, over the past decade, it has supported veterans and their families through Help for Heroes—creating a lasting legacy that continues to reflect his values, service and spirit.

1. Tell us about your relationship to David – Tell us more about him and any specific memories you’d like to share.

I’m David’s auntie and I have so many memories of him I could share, but one that always makes me smile is when he appeared on my doorstep one New Year’s Day having not yet been to bed.

He proceeded to tell me that the night before, he and some of his fellow officers—dressed to impress—had gatecrashed the New Year’s Eve ball at Gleneagles! They arrived in the car park in a bashed-up Punto (if anyone can remember those cars), strolled in as though they owned the place, grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing waitress, and spent the entire evening dancing, laughing and having a ball. I think he may even have popped a bottle of bubbly in some unsuspecting person’s room… what a boy!! 🤣🤣🤣

That was David all over—full of life, cheeky, confident, and always creating unforgettable moments.

2. This year, we’re marking ten years of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund – what’s your reflections on all that’s been achieved in supporting veterans and their families in David’s name, through Help for Heroes?

I couldn’t be more proud of the work that’s been done to support veterans and their families over the last 10 years. I still remember one of the first families we helped. The man had been unable to venture into the countryside on his bike due to life-changing injuries. He felt trapped, and it was starting to affect his overall wellbeing. His greatest wish was simply to take his dog out and cycle again.

Through the money raised by so many people, we were able to gift him an adapted bike. He was absolutely delighted, and a few months later he sent us the most heartwarming photo—out in the countryside with his lovely dog. I will remember that image forever. Moments like that really show the difference this fund has made, and continues to make. We raised a significant amount of money, and for me it was about more than that—it proved I could face anything, all in his memory.

3. We’ve established a massive fundraising community in that time – tell us about fundraising you’ve been involved in?

My biggest fundraising contribution came within a year of losing David. Like he did every day, I wanted to do something that truly challenged me—in fact, something that scared me beyond belief. I was persuaded that a 14,000-foot skydive would be an amazing way to raise money for the fund, and that if David was looking down, he’d be proud of his crazy auntie. In reality, I suspect he was up there laughing his head off as I screamed his name all the way down!

We raised a significant amount of money, and for me it was about more than that—it proved I could face anything, all in his memory.

4. What’s your message to encourage people to come along to Pittencrieff Park to support our 5K Run/Walk event on Sunday 26 April?

My message would be—no matter your fitness level, you can be part of this amazing event. Every single penny raised goes to those who really need it. These men and women don’t think twice when faced with challenges—so let’s do our bit for them. Come along, take part, support in any way you can, and be part of something truly meaningful.

You don’t have to jump out of a plane to support David’s legacy – could you give just one hour on Sunday 26 April?

Join us for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk in Pittencrieff Park:
https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52

Every step helps continue David’s legacy.

This year marks ten years since the tragic passing of Captain David Seath. In this series of website articles, his family share their reflections on his life, legacy and all that has been achieved in his memory.

In this piece, David’s mother, Libby Seath, reflects on the growth and impact of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund — established in his honour — which over the past decade has supported veterans through Help for Heroes, creating a lasting legacy that continues to reflect his values, service and spirit.

We cannot believe it has been 10 years since we lost David, just 3.2 miles from the finish of the London Marathon on 24 April 2016. That was the most devastating day of our lives, and we will never forget that phone call.

But that same night, Gary relaunched David’s JustGiving page — and from that moment, a new journey began. A journey to keep David’s memory alive and to support soldiers and their families affected by conflict, not only those with physical injuries, but also those living with psychological and often hidden wounds.

We wanted to create something lasting — regular fundraising that could provide ongoing support. In June 2016, I began teaching yoga, with all proceeds going to The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund. Alongside this, we established our annual Memorial 5K, held every Marathon Sunday, and a quiz night each November.

With your incredible support, we have now raised over £340,000.

As we mark this 10th anniversary, we would be so grateful if you would consider joining us in any way you can — whether by taking part, supporting, or spreading the word. Together, we can continue David’s legacy and help even more veterans and families who need it most.

Could you give just one hour on Sunday 26 April?

Join us for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk in Pittencrieff Park:
https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52

Every step helps continue David’s legacy.

This year marks ten years since the tragic passing of Captain David Seath. In this series of website articles, his family share their reflections on his legacy and all that has been achieved. Claire Louise Sykes, David’s cousin, reflects on the growth and impact of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund—established in his memory—which has spent the past decade supporting veterans through Help for Heroes, creating a lasting legacy that honours his life, values and service.

Tell us about your relationship to David – tell us more about him and any specific memories you’d like to share.

David is my cousin on my mum’s side, and despite spending most of my life growing up away from Scotland, whenever we returned home during the school holidays, he had a way of making it feel like no time had passed at all.

We didn’t get the opportunity to truly know one another deeply, but he always made me smile. His grin was infectious, matched only by his vibrant, vivacious way of life. Whenever we did get the chance to spend time together, I always felt completely at home.

David was full of adventure, but he never lost sight of what mattered most—his family and the people who loved him. One memory that always stands out is when my sister and I visited him at Aberdeen University during one of our trips back to Scotland. He was so proud to show us around where he was studying—and, of course, the “gifts” he’d collected on his uni nights out, including a few roadwork signs decorating his room and shared flat.

He had such a cheeky, mischievous side, and that day I remember seeing the sparkle in his eyes as he told us stories of his antics with friends. I couldn’t help but admire his courage to test limits and push boundaries—it’s no surprise he went on to thrive in a career in the Army.

David remains such a vital part of our family. I’ll always wish I’d had the chance to know him better, but I will forever treasure the memories I do have.

This year, we’re marking ten years of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund – what are your reflections on all that’s been achieved in supporting veterans and their families in David’s name, through Help for Heroes?

Witnessing the growth of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund has been truly inspiring. I am incredibly proud of my cousin—and David’s brother—Gary, who has poured his heart and soul into preserving David’s memory through such meaningful charitable work.

David’s parents, Libby and Pete, have also been a constant and powerful presence in the development of the fund. Their strength and resilience in keeping David’s memory alive is deeply admirable.

When you reflect on everything that has been achieved and raised over the past ten years, it is nothing short of remarkable. I know David would be immensely proud to see the impact being made, particularly in supporting the recovery journeys of fellow veterans through Help for Heroes and the CDSMF.

We’ve established a massive fundraising community in that time – tell us about fundraising you’ve been involved in.

Before moving to Scotland in 2017, my parents, sister and husband were always active in fundraising while living in Australia. We took part in events like the Colour Run and even organised our own version of the annual 5K run held at the end of April.

Since relocating to Scotland, my husband and I have been involved in nearly all the fundraising events held in David’s name. It means so much to us to represent the Australian side of the family here in Scotland, standing alongside everyone who continues to honour him.

What’s your message to encourage people to come along to Pittencrieff Park to support our 5K Run/Walk event on Sunday 26 April?

David was the kind of person who embraced any challenge and was always ready to help others. The 5K Run taking place at Pittencrieff Park this April is a family-friendly event where our community comes together—not only in honour of David, but also to remember all those who have given their lives to protect the society we live in.

Bring your pets, prams and toddlers—I’ll be walking it this year with my two-year-old while 29 weeks pregnant!

Your presence truly means so much to our family and to those the CDSMF supports. So, whether you come along to smile, laugh, reflect or challenge yourself, please know that every step taken is part of something bigger—because we are all in this together.

Could you give just an hour to be part of something special on Sunday 26 April?

Join us for our Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk: https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52

A remarkable young woman from Dunfermline has been recognised for her outstanding leadership, commitment to others, and embodiment of the Commando Ethos after being named the latest recipient of the Captain David Seath Memorial Award.

Anya Holland, a pupil at St Columba’s High School, was presented with the award in recognition of her sustained contribution to her school and wider community, demonstrating the values of courage, determination, unselfishness and cheerfulness in the face of challenge; principles at the heart of the Commando Ethos.

From her early years in S1 through to her final year in S6, Anya has consistently gone above and beyond to support others. Her commitment and reliability have seen her take on a wide range of responsibilities, culminating in her appointment as a Senior Prefect.

In this role, she has dedicated significant time to supporting the school community, playing an active part in initiatives such as the Equalities Group and Pupil Parliament. She has also helped organise assemblies and drama productions, while extending her support to local primary schools by assisting with sports days, always willing to step forward wherever help is needed.

Beyond school, Anya serves as a Leader within a local Scouts group, where she continues to develop and demonstrate the leadership and teamwork skills that have become a hallmark of her character.

Linda Morris, Business Manager at St Columba’s High School, praised Anya’s contribution, describing her as “a true role model” who is “dependable, proactive and always willing to help.”

The award was presented by Libby Seath, who spoke of Anya as a fitting recipient of an award created in memory of Captain David Seath. “Anya is an outstanding example of a young woman who has already given so much of her time and effort to others, both in school and in her local community,” she said. “She embodies all the qualities that David demonstrated and the values he upheld. We wish her every success for the future.”

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The Legacy of Captain David Seath

Captain David Seath was himself a former pupil of St Columba’s High School, attending the school throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. During his time there, he demonstrated many of the same qualities now recognised through this award; leadership, determination and a strong sense of service to others.

After leaving school, David went on to study at the University of Aberdeen before pursuing a career in the Armed Forces. He graduated from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and was commissioned as an officer.

He later completed the demanding All Arms Commando Course, earning the coveted Green Beret and joining 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery. Promoted to the rank of Captain, he went on to serve with distinction in Afghanistan, exemplifying the Commando values of courage, determination, unselfishness and cheerfulness in the face of adversity.

In 2016, David tragically passed away while running the London Marathon in support of Help for Heroes; a cause reflecting his lifelong commitment to supporting fellow servicemen and women.

The Captain David Seath Memorial Award was established in his memory, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of young people to lead with integrity, resilience and selflessness, and to embody the enduring values of the Commando Ethos.

Could you give just an hour to be part of something special on Sunday 26 April?

Join us for our Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk: https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52