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Veteran’s Family Turns Tragedy into Positive Legacy

A family from Dunfermline who have devoted the last ten years to raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to support veterans across Scotland have made a fresh appeal for local people to show their support.

The family of Captain David Seath, who tragically died in 2016 whilst participating in the London Marathon to support Help for Heroes, are hoping that local supporters and businesses will come together to make this year’s 5k event at Pittencrieff Park on Sunday 26 April the most memorable one yet.

For more information about the 5k event go to Captain David Seath Memorial 5K Run | Walk (Hybrid) Tickets, Sun 26 Apr 2026 at 10:30 | Eventbrite

To date, David’s family and friends have raised over £350,000 to support Scottish veterans. Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, who is David’s older brother, has said that they would love to reach £400,000 this year.

Gary said: “We would love to get as many attendees as possible to take part in the 5k event this year. It’s an occasion for people of all ages and abilities. People can run, jog, pram-push, cycle and walk the circuit. The event welcomes families, groups of friends and colleagues, the armed forces and veteran community: it would be great if local businesses could enter teams, to show their support for our veterans.

“This is going to be a very emotional time for me and my family. Our world was shattered when David died. Ten years on, being able to support a cause that was so important to him has helped us to honour his memory, and we know it’s made a real difference to veterans across Scotland.”

David served with distinction in Afghanistan with 19th Regiment Royal Artillery, who later earned the coveted green beret to serve with 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery. He was inspired to run in support of Help for Heroes, having seen the incredible work undertaken to support veterans overcome life-changing physical and psychological wounds. He had a cardiac arrest three miles short of the finish line whilst taking part in the 2016 London Marathon.

Gary added: “It was so important to our family that we embodied the commando ethos when David died.

“The support of local people and beyond for our family has been amazing over the last ten years and I wish to express my heartfelt and sincere thanks to everyone who has attended our events or fundraised in their own way. We know that David’s legacy will live on through the hundreds of veterans who have been supported over the years. It would mean so much to us if we could achieve our target this year.”

Mark Elliott, formerly Grenadier Guards, is a founding member of Help for Heroes: “I remember getting the news of David’s passing like it was yesterday. The incredible courage, determination and resilience of Libby, Pete and Gary was and remains humbling.  The fund established in David’s name has helped so many veterans across Scotland. We can’t thank them enough – they’ve turned their tragedy into something positive for others. The demand for our services continues to grow and without inspirational supporters like the Libby, Pete and Gary, we wouldn’t be able to reach as many people. Thank you”

David Dent is an army veteran who lives in Lanarkshire and who is an Ambassador for Help for Heroes. He suffered a blast injury in Bosnia in 1994, and a back injury on operations, leading to him leaving service in 2000.  He said : “I know from personal experience how valuable the support of the Charity is. It’s helped me to deal with mental and physical impact of my injuries and build myself a new life. I’m so grateful to the Seath family for everything they’ve done, to support veterans like me.”

For more information about the 5k event go to Captain David Seath Memorial 5K Run | Walk (Hybrid) Tickets, Sun 26 Apr 2026 at 10:30 | Eventbrite

Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community and helps people live well after service. The Charity supports veterans and their families with their physical and mental health, as well as welfare and social needs. It has already supported tens of thousands – and won’t stop until every veteran gets the support they deserve.   

The Charity supports veterans and their families from any branch of the UK military, regulars and reserves, irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians who worked under the command of UK Armed Forces.  

To get support visit helpforheroes.org.uk or call 0300 303 9888

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Record attendance comes out in force to support local heroes’ legacy

The highly popular Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz returned to the Garvock House Hotel, Dunfermline on Friday 14 November.

Supported by over 130 attendees, the event, renowned for its engaging format, mixing up music audio, picture rounds and questions focused on recent events, as well as musical entertainment, also generated a record fundraising amount.

An incredible £2000 was raised through a mix of attendance, a prize raffle, donations and generous sponsorship from Incontri Italian Restaurant: all of which continues to support veterans and their families, through Help for Heroes, in David’s name.

As an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, Captain Seath was deeply passionate in supporting the wellbeing of men and women under his command. He was equally inspired to do all he could to support those returning from life-changing physical and psychological wounds through a number of armed forces charities.

Ultimately, that passion led to running the London Marathon in 2016, in support of Help for Heroes, where he tragically died 3.2 miles short of the finish line. Since then, over £350,000.00 has been raised in his name continuing to meet a diverse range of needs from the armed forces community.

Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, Gary Seath, said: “First and foremost, I want to offer my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, as well as those who supported the event in other ways, through donations and generous sponsorship from Inctonri Italian Restaurant.

“The funds raised through this event are vital – last year alone, funds raised by the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund helped to meet a 36% increase in calls for support from the armed forces community across Scotland, for services delivered by Help for Heroes.

“This led to delivery of 600 positive actions across the year. From ensuring veterans can access support assisting in recovery and rehabilitation, reducing isolation and loneliness, providing employability and skills training to family grants, mental health services, and much more.

“There are circa 15,000 men and women leaving the armed forces every year. For some, the decision to leave the armed forces is made voluntarily. For others, it’s a decision they have no control over; like the 2000 personnel medically discharged each year – equating to five a day.

“According to MOD data, the average age someone leaving the armed forces now is 31. We are seeing emerging numbers of younger veterans requiring wider, more complex and tailored approaches to making successful transitions to civilian life.

“What’s special about what we do at the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, together with Help for Heroes, is that we have established an incredible community committed to making Scotland a place where ‘every veteran feels even more valued, supported, empowered and never disadvantaged as a result of their service.’

The quiz is attended by many with personal links to Captain Seath, the armed forces community or by those who simply want to support worthy local causes.

Steven Williams previously served with the Royal Regiment of Scotland, who has supported several quiz events delivered by the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, said: “Given Remembrance Week, the event provides a great way to have a laugh, to be around a community supporting veterans and their families to round up what proves a very emotional week.

“I think Gary and the family make it special, and very personal about that selfless commitment, sacrifice, and why David chose to run the London Marathon in the first place. So, it’s quite emotive and it’s just quite heartwarming – I never knew David, I work in the forces community, but I feel Gary has made a real impact, and I want to support him and his family.

“This local cause means so much to lots of people – it’s not about flagship taglines; it’s about the personal approach. It’s emotional – David lost his life doing what he felt was best. Having given my own selfless commitment, coming tonight is a small token back to keeping the veterans community alive.”

Gill Hunter has worked with members of the armed forces community through the Ministry of Defence who has attended several quiz events with her family said: “So, I think there’s a few things that make it special. Whilst I didn’t know, David’s, I think the doing this in his memory and for, the cause and for those to, living and, struggling, as, veterans as, is something that’s really important to support, but I would imagine that he, he would be very proud of Gary and all those involved to making, tonight such a great success. But especially the phenomenal amounts of money that they’re raising for the cause. So, it’s, it’s special and lots of levels

“It’s very humbling, I think that those who are willing to put on a uniform, represent their countries, both in military terms, and also in terms of first responders policing, are phenomenal. and I just wish I had I think an ounce of their bravery. So, to still to be able to come to a quiz have a nice time and walk away at the end of the night. I’m very, very I’m thankful for being in that position, but I’m the more thankful for those who this money is going to support. And they’re so deserving of the funds already raised.”

Over twenty quiz teams participated in this year’s event and there were many impressive scores recorded on the night. It was ‘Trivia Newton John’ who emerged victorious, pipping defending champions, ‘The Dirty Ranchers’, by just two two points.

Felicity Johnston was part of the winning team on the night. Participating in many fundraising initiatives in support of David’s legacy during her time with 1145 Air Cadet Training Squadron which he attended in the late 1990’s, Felicity said: “We made sure that we put this one in the diary because we love a quiz and it’s a charity that is close to our hearts. I think it is really amazing that we’re coming together to support veterans. I feel like a lot of the time they maybe get overlooked or forgotten about.  And I think that, you know, they are a massive part of the country, and they need to be helped through whatever they’re going through, after serving their country.”

The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K run/walk and quiz fundraising events will return in April and November next year as the cause commemorates ten years of supporting veterans and their families through Help for Heroes.

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Kiltwalk Fundraising Team Profiles – Cpl Ormiston

Members of 1145 (City of Dunfermline) Air Cadet Squadron are going the extra mile to raise funds in the name of former cadet, Captain David Seath.

We were delighted to announce the squadron’s incredible 20-mile fundraising challenge earlier this month, and now it’s time to get to know the cadets and leaders getting involved in the epic Dundee Kiltwalk Mighty Stride on Sunday 17 August 2025.

Next up is Corporal Ormiston –

What three words would you choose to describe yourself?

My 3 words to describe myself are: Committed, Friendly and Hardworking 

How long have you been in the air cadets?

I have been in the air cadets for just under 3 Years.

What’s your highlight(s) been so far in the air cadets?

My highlights in the air cadets are definitely the experiences to be flying and gliding.

What’s your favourite sweet?

My favourite sweets are haribos.

How does it feel to be raising money in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund?

It gives me a sense of pride to be able to raise money for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

Top three music tracks for your Kiltwalk soundtrack?

My top three songs would be Mardy Bum by Artic Monkeys, People Watching by Sam Fender and Sofa Song by The Kooks.

Interesting fact about yourself?

I play the drum kit and play in a percussion ensemble.

We express our sincere thanks to Corporal Ormiston for going the extra mile in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

Make a donation through the squadron’s Just Giving Page.

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Kitlwalk Fundraising Team Profiles – Corporal Newlands

Members of 1145 (City of Dunfermline) Air Cadet Squadron are going the extra mile to raise funds in the name of former cadet, Captain David Seath.

We were delighted to announce the squadron’s incredible 20-mile fundraising challenge earlier this month, and now it’s time to get to know the cadets and leaders getting involved in the epic Dundee Kiltwalk Mighty Stride on Sunday 17 August 2025.

Next up is Corporal Isla Newlands –

What three words would you choose to describe yourself?

Nice, creative thinker, and chatty.

How long have you been in the air cadets?

I have been an air cadet for about 3 years.

What’s your highlight(s) been so far in the air cadets?

Meeting my best friend Zoe and getting to experience camps and other people.

What’s your favourite sweet?

My favourite sweet is probably marvellous creations, dairy milk.

How does it feel to be raising money in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund?

I think raising any sort of money for charity is a very rewarding thing to get involved with, it makes you feel like you have a place and you’re doing something right. It is for a good cause and it’s a rewarding feeling doing something good.

Top three music tracks for your Kiltwalk soundtrack?

‘Summerboy’ by Lady Gaga because it’s a summery and uplifting song and I would play other songs like that.

Interesting fact about yourself?

I’m an arty person and I love taking care of other people.

We express our sincere thanks to Corporal Newlands for going the extra mile in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

Make a donation through the squadron’s Just Giving Page.

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Kiltwalk Fundraising Team Profiles – Corporal Duddy

Members of 1145 (City of Dunfermline) Air Cadet Squadron are going the extra mile to raise funds in the name of former cadet, Captain David Seath.

We were delighted to announce the squadron’s incredible 20-mile fundraising challenge earlier this month, and now it’s time to get to know the cadets and leaders getting involved in the epic Dundee Kiltwalk Mighty Stride on Sunday 17 August 2025.

First up is Corporal Kadie Duddy –

What three words would you choose to describe yourself?

Confident, funny and kind.

How long have you been in the air cadets?

Just over 3 years.

What’s your highlight(s) been so far in the air cadets?

Making new friends, flying, shooting with the air rifles and the opportunities to get many qualifications.

What’s your favourite sweet?

Mini Eggs.

How does it feel to be raising money in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund?

I feel very happy as I know I am helping those in need. This charity is very close to our hearts at 1145 squadron and your support would mean everything to us knowing everyone has our backs in this amazing fundraising opportunity. 

Top three music tracks for your Kiltwalk soundtrack?

‘That’s so true’ – Gracie Abrams, ‘Your gonna go far’ – Noah Kahan, and ‘Champagne Coast’ – Blood Orange.

Interesting fact about yourself?

I play the pipe band snare drum. 

We express our sincere thanks to Corporal Duddy for going the extra mile in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

Make a donation through the squadron’s Just Giving Page.

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Going the extra fundraising mile to support David’s legacy

Members of 1145 (City of Dunfermline) Air Cadet Squadron are going the extra mile to raise funds in the name of former cadet, Captain David Seath, through the Kiltwalk.

A team of cadets and volunteer leaders will stride out with purpose on Sunday 17 August to complete the twenty-mile Dundee mighty stride to raise funds in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, supporting veterans and their families through the charity, Help for Heroes.

Captain Seath attended the squadron in the late nineties, gaining many incredible experiences, such as parachuting out of a plane in Cyprus, before progressing to the University of Aberdeen and The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Within six months of graduating from the prestigious academy, he led troops through a successful tour of Afghanistan with 19th Regiment Royal Artillery, returning to the UK earn his coveted green beret to serve in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery.

Inspired to run in support of Help for Heroes, having seen the incredible work undertaken to support veterans overcome life-changing physical and psychological wounds, Captain Seath tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon.

Funds raised has reached over £350,000.00 that deliver vital mental health support, health and social care services, employability and skills training, camaraderie events and vital family support grants across Scotland.

“In many ways, parallels can be drawn between this incredible fundraising challenge and the weighted marches David used to enjoy as part of his military training, and so much more.” says Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund (pictured above).

“1145 Air Cadet Squadron has been an incredible supporter behind David’s legacy for many years, and we are sincerely grateful to the cadets and staff prepared for showing the Commando Spirt of Courage, determination, and selfless commitment in completing this epic fundraising challenge.”

The squadron have selected the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund as their charity of the year, who have held a wide range of fundraising activities over the past nine years, raising over £10,000.00 for the cause so far.

“1145 (City of Dunfermline) Squadron is proud to support the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund by taking part in the Dundee Kiltwalk, says Flight Lieutenant Kirsty Dunlop, Officer Commanding, 1145 (City of Dunfermline) Squadron.

“Supporting David’s legacy and the positive impact of the Fund is a meaningful way for our cadets to live out the RAFAC values—Respect, Integrity, Service, and Excellence, particularly since David was a cadet himself. Every step we take honours David’s memory and help continue the work he inspired.”

Further updates to follow. Please click on the link below to donate.

Team 1145 for David Seath Memorial Fund is fundraising for Help for Heroes

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St Margaret’s RC Primary School announce this year’s Captain Seath Memorial Award recipient

Sam Potter becomes the latest Captain David Seath Memorial Award recipient who received the accolade during St Margaret RC Primary School’s Leavers’ Mass and award ceremony, held on Thursday 04 July.

Former pupil, Captain David Seath, attended the school in the late 1990’s, who progressed to St Columba’s RC High School, and later graduated from Aberdeen University achieving a Masters in International Politics.

Having completed his academic career, Captain Seath graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, completed a tour of Afghanistan in 2012 with 19th Regiment Royal Artillery, and earned the coveted green beret to serve as a Captain in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery.

Inspired to run in support of Help for Heroes, having seen the incredible work undertaken to support veterans overcome life-changing physical and psychological wounds, Captain Seath tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon.

The award established in his name recognises leadership, courage and determination to overcome challenge and adversity to succeed. It’s one of several awards made during the ceremony recognising the depth of talent, aptitude and commitment pupils demonstrate.

“Throughout his entire career in St Margaret’s, at every stage, no matter what, Sam has shown self-motivation, with a real internal drive to be positive and make good choices.”, says Catherine Mullen, Headteacher at St Margaret RC Primary School.

“There seems to be an internal drive for him to push forward rather than external rewards – if that makes sense. He has a focus and determination that means he sticks to an activity or piece of work giving it his full attention. 

“He is a good friend. He is motivated to help his friends, during school with work but also in sport. He is a real team player. And he does it all with a smile.”

We are delighted to present Sam with the Captain David Seath Memorial Award, who is a thoroughly worthy recipient”, says Libby Seath, who attended ceremony. The event always proves a very special occasion. It’s wonderful to remember David in this way by recognising how Sam, and all previous recipients, have embodied the values and standards David demonstrated as an Officer in 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery. We wish Sam, all pupils leaving St Margarets all the best for the future.”

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Memorial Fund 5K raises £1.1K in honour of late Army Captain

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.

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Memorial 5K run/walk returns in memory of local hero

Picture of runners taking part in the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K in Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline, against the backdrop of the famous cherry blossoms.

The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K fundraising event returns to Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline, on Sunday 27 April 2025 at 10:30am.

Welcoming runners, walkers of all ages and abilities, alongside dog-joggers, and pram pushers too, funds raised will support veterans and their families across Scotland, through the charity, Help for Heroes, in David’s name.

The fund was set up following the tragic death of Captain David Seath, who tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon in support of Help for Heroes. Since then, over £350,000.00 has been raised in his name.

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Run in the glen for David

Funds raised have delivered 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 wounds.

Over 15,000 men and women leave the British armed forces annually. Whilst significant proportions of circa 220,000 veterans living in Scotland are of retirement age, growing numbers of younger veteran families are presenting a wider range of complex support needs.

Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, emphasizes how important giving simply one hour on Sunday 27 April will prove in supporting the cause:

“We warmly invite the local community of Dunfermline and beyond to consider giving an hour later this month in helping us to raise funds in support of David’s legacy. That one hour and, and small donation of £6, makes a massive difference in ensuring the unique support needs of veterans and their families are met across Scotland, through Help for Heroes.

“From finding meaningful employment and gaining training to advance career aspirations to grants to help cover life’s essentials, mental health support, meeting health and social care needs, camaraderie activities and much more, please consider coming along to support the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund later this month in Pittencrieff Park.”

Help for Heroes supports veterans and their families from any branch of the UK military, regulars and reserves, irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians who worked under the command of UK Armed Forces.

If you or a family member is a veteran and you need support, visit helpforheroes.org.uk or call 0300 303 9888.

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5K Run/Walk and Quiz 2025 dates announced

The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund is proud to announce 2025 dates for its flagship fundraising events: the annual 5K Run/Walk and the ever-popular Quiz Night.

These events honour the memory of Captain David Seath and support veterans and their families across Scotland through Help for Heroes.

Captain David Seath, of 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, served with distinction in Afghanistan, who tragically died during the 2016 London Marathon.

The fund set up in his name has raised over £340,000.00 that supports veterans and their families through Help for Heroes, the charity Captain Seath chose to raise funds for in running the marathon

5K Run/Walk

Join us on Sunday, 27 April 2025, at 10:30 AM in the picturesque Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline, for a family-friendly 5K event. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome to run, walk, cycle, dog-jog, or pram-push along a route showcasing the park’s beautiful surroundings.

If you’re unable to attend in person, you can participate virtually by completing a 5K at your preferred location and time. All funds raised will support veterans and their families in David’s name.

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Run in the glen for David

Quiz Night

Test your knowledge and enjoy an evening of entertainment on Friday, 14 November 2025 at 7:30pm, at Garvock House Hotel, Dunfermline. Gather your team of friends, family, or colleagues for mind-teasing questions covering sports, film, general knowledge, and our famous music and picture rounds.

The evening includes a delightful haggis supper, table snacks, and musical entertainment. Teams of up to six are encouraged, but smaller groups are also welcome. Tickets are £18.00 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

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These events provide an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate David’s legacy, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of veterans and their families.

We look forward to your participation and support.