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The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz raises over £1500 in support of veterans and their families across Scotland.

Over one-hundred and ten quizzers attended the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz at the Garvock House Hotel on Friday 17 November 2023.

Captain David Seath was running the London Marathon in support of Help for Heroes when he tragically died 3.2 miles from the finish line in 2016. Since then, the legacy set up in his name has raised over £330,600.00 for the charity.

Funds raised through David’s legacy will help to deliver vital comradeship activities, as well as mental health, and case management services, through Help for Heroes.

The event has proved a popular fixture within the local community of Dunfermline for the past six years, well-known for its fun-based, accessible quiz focused on general knowledge, current events, picture, and music rounds.

The quiz is attended by many who have a personal connection to David and his family, as well as veterans, and those from surrounding communities keen to support a local cause.

Jenny Wilson said:

“It was a thoroughly enjoyable night. The quiz was great fun, it was a fantastic atmosphere, and it’s great to raise funds for David’s legacy that is helping so many veterans and their families across Scotland.”

There were many strong performances on the night and ‘Hope there’s Flags’ emerged victorious with an impressive score of 66 out of a possible 70 points.

The team included our youngest winner to date – Marcus McCran Jnr (pictured) who apparently played a blinder with regard to the film and music rounds.

In addition to funds raised through attendance and a raffle, the event was generously sponsored by MRM Global, Incontri Italian Restaurant and Panda Print.

Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund said:

“We were delighted to welcome so many to our Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz.

“It’s the sixth year we have hosted the quiz. Many put it in their diary year on year and we are so grateful for their continued support. Equally it proved a wonderful experience to welcome those supporting David’s legacy for the first time.

“Working within the veteran sector, the need for continued support is clear; this concerns both veterans in later life and growing numbers of younger veterans presenting a greater scope of complex support needs.

“This can range from finding a home, employment, education or skills training to physical and mental health support needs to family relationships, financial matters and much more.

“No matter what stage of life a veteran decides to reach out for support, David’s legacy is making a huge difference.

“It helps veterans to make successful transitions to civilian life, to reduce isolation and loneliness as well as to make positive lasting recovery from life-changing physical and psychological wounds and much more.

“I wish to thank all who attended and sponsored our quiz for joining us to become a truly incredible force for good behind a truly remarkable legacy.”

Molly Clarke has received the Captain David Seath Award for Endeavour to Succeed salver at St Margaret RC Primary School’s end of year award ceremony.

The award, established in memory of former pupil, Captain David Seath, who tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon, recognises leadership, courage and determination to overcome challenge and adversity to succeed in all aspects of school life.

Fraser Gillan, Headteacher at St Margaret’s RC Primary School said:

“Molly has been heavily involved in the life and work of our school. She has taken on numerous leadership roles including, making positive contributions to our nativity, stations of the cross and investing time to invest in our younger learners.

“Molly has set an excellent example to others and is incredibly kind and considerate. She has a passion for football and shows great sportsmanship and leadership and that is why she was chosen as a Young Sports Leader.

“Molly is determined and highly-motivated; she faces all challenges with perseverance, positivity and a growth mindset while supporting others. Molly always endeavours to succeed.”

Libby Seath, the mother of Captain David Seath, presented the memorial salver to Molly during the ceremony, who said:

“It was with great pleasure that I presented our endeavour salver to Molly, who is a deserved winner having given significant service to the school community in a range of ways; as a leader and effective team member in line with the school’s values of faith, fairness and achievement.

“Our family wish Molly well as she embarks on her high school career at St Columba’s after a throughly well-deserved summer holiday.”

The brother of the late Captain David Seath has smashed his target of running 60km (36 miles) in a day to raise money for the legacy established to support veterans in his name.

Funds raised will support veterans and their families, through Help for Heroes, the charity Captain Seath was raising funds for when he tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon, aged 31.

The gruelling ultra event on Saturday saw Gary Seath, founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, and his friend, Ben Waite, successfully run 12 Parkrun routes across Central Scotland, to coincide with Armed Forces Day.

Gary, 40, from Dunfermline, said: “It was tough. You cannot escape the reason why we were attempting this challenge, it was a 36 mile run so ultimately, I was aware of the degree of risk, and my parents were obviously anxious. It was a huge mental effort, but this is what training prepares you for and it gave us that real commando-style mentality.”

Starting in Cramond at 4.25am, the team was joined throughout the day as temperatures climbed by supporters and crossed the finish line in Dunfermline, the hometown of Captain David Seath, more than 17 hours later at around 9pm.

The fund has raised more than £350,000 to date which funds vital mental health services, comradeship activities, as well as supports veterans to develop employability skills and much more.

“The community spirit all day gave us such a boost, especially in the heat, we were joined by veterans, serving personnel and reservists as well as members of the public of all ages. Simon Watkinson ended up joining us for all 12 runs, which was fantastic,” said Gary who has raised £1,350 from his initial £500 goal.

“The event proved a true test of stamina, determination and commitment; all of which are core values reflected in the commando ethos that David believed in very strongly.”

Last month, Gary was named winner of the prestigious Reservist of the Year Award at the Scottish Ex-Forces in Business Awards.

He received the award in recognition of his charitable work with the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, Help for Heroes, and Forces Children Scotland, whilst also being an active member of 105th Regiment (The Scottish and Ulster Gunners) Royal Artillery.

Gary added: “We were euphoric at the finish line; we had completed an epic distance that proved demanding from a physical, emotional, and psychological perspective.

“It proved poignant to bring members of the Armed Forces community together and to raise awareness of the help that is available on their doorstep – ultimately, funds raised through this challenge help make these services available to those who need a little extra support.”

Donations can be made at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/cdsmf-60kchallenge

The brother of the late Captain David Seath will be joined by his close friend to complete an epic 60K in day running challenge in support of his legacy established to support veterans.

The event returns on Saturday 24 June, following a successful 50K fundraising event in 2019, which raised over £1500 in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

The challenge will involve Gary Seath, founder of the Captain David Seath Memoria Fund, and his Friend, Ben Waite, taking on twelve 5K Parkrun routes across Central Scotland in one day.

Starting at Cramond at 4.25am, the team will be joined by runners at the twelve locations throughout the day, which is scheduled to finish at Dunfermline, the home of Captain David Seath, at 8pm.

Funds raised will support veterans and their families, through Help for Heroes, the charity Captain Seath was raising funds for when he tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon.

The fund has raised over £350,000 to date which funds vital mental health services, comradeship activities, as well as supports veterans to develop employability skills and much more, through Help for Heroes.

Gary Seath said:

“Both Ben and I agreed that the 50K event proved so memorable in bringing so many runners together to raise funds in David’s memory, that we should give things another go.

“The event proves a true test of stamina, determination and commitment; all of which are core values reflected in the commando ethos that David believed in very strongly.

“Whether you’d like to join us for all twelve or simply one park run along the way, everyone is warmly welcome to join our force for good on Saturday 24 June.”

Ben Waite was part of the 2019 50K in A Day Challenge team and has played an instrumental role in coordinating the twelve parkrun locations for this year’s challenge.

“I’m in awe of all that has been achieved in David’s memory through the fund and can’t wait to take part in the 60K in a Day Challenge later this month.

“The 50K event in 2019 was such a special day and the support, both through donations and turn out meant so much to us and here’s hoping we can attract similar support this year.”

Donations can be made via a Just-Giving: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/cdsmf-60kchallenge

This award is given to a pupil who has consistently shown application, dedication and perseverance in his or her day-to-day schooling and extra-curricular activities at St Columba’s High RC School in Dunfermline.

In other words, someone who ‘gets things done’ and inspires others to take action.

The award also recognises developing skills in leadership but also someone who can effective contribute as a member of a wider team; supporting and motivating others to get involved and to succeed.

This year’s worthy winner is John MacGregor, a 6^th year pupil from St Columba’s High School in Dunfermline.

Libby Seath (pictured with John MacGregor), the mother of Captain David Seath, said:

“John was chosen for the Captain David Seath award as he has been an exceptional leader in S6 in so many areas including the yearbook committee, as a house captain and as part of the equalities and diversity group. 

“He has also shown great commitment as a prefect and never failed to take on any additional duties that was requested of him.  John has made an outstanding contribution to the school.”

John is soon to attend Edinburgh University to study law and we wish him well in all his endeavours in the future.

A charity 5K set up in honour of a late West Fife army captain attracted a large group of enthusiastic runners and walkers to Dunfermline’s Pittencrieff Park on Sunday.

The event was held in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, who tragically passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest while running the 2016 London Marathon in aid of Help for Heroes.

More than 120 people took part in Sunday’s event, with around 100 joining the late captain’s family in Pittencrieff Park and another 20 who joined in virtually from around the world. Friends, family and supporters from as far as America and Australia laced up their running shoes and completed a 5K.

Gary Seath, Captain Seath’s brother and founder of the fund, told the Press: “I think it proved to be another wonderful community fundraising event in David’s memory where over 120 people participated in the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5k.”

In total, the event raised £1,100 in support of the armed forces personnel, veterans and their families through Help for Heroes.

“When you consider that we’re now talking about a tragic event that took place over seven years ago, and you’re thinking about such significant numbers of the local community still coming out and supporting David’s legacy seven years on, I think that speaks volumes for the high regard that the local community had for David as a person and what he stood for.”

First held back in 2017, the 5K takes place each year on the weekend closest to the date of the passing of Captain Seath, a commando who served in Afghanistan and the Middle East with the 19th Regiment Royal Artillery and the 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery respectively.

Gary added: “The London Marathon Sunday will always prove to be a hugely poignant day for our family and that’s why it’s so important to set up the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K on London Marathon Sunday because it provides a very positive focus for family, friends and the wider community to come together to remember David and raise funds to support his legacy.

“I think I speak for my whole family when I say that we’re sincerely grateful to the local community for their continued support, as well as the new supporters who joined us for the first time on Sunday and, collectively, I think we’ve forged an incredible force for good behind what’s become a truly remarkable legacy.”

Among those who turned up to the fundraising event were the 1145 Dunfermline Squadron RAF Air Cadets who helped direct the runners, joggers and walkers on the day, and the Widows Sons Scotland’s East Chapter of the Masonic Riders Association, who donated £150 to the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund.

The group regularly makes donations to small local charities, and this time decided to give their members’ donations to the memorial fund.

Derek Ross, the chapter president, told the Press: “We’re Freemasons on motorbikes and what we do is we go around lots of small charities, supporting them as much as we can. The Captain David Seath Memorial Fund came into our line of vision so we thought we would support them with a cheque for £150.

“In reality, it’s not a lot of money but it makes some difference to small charities.”

For his outstanding commitment and dedication to raising funds for the ‘Captain David Seath Memorial Fund’, ‘Help for Heroes’ and ‘Forces Children Scotland’, Gary Seath has been awarded the prestigious Reservist of the Year Award at the Scottish Ex-Forces in Business Awards. Awarded in recognition of his indelible charitable work, whilst also being an active member of 105^th Regiment (The Scottish and Ulster Gunners) Royal Artillery.

Held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow on 18 April 2023, the Ex-Forces in Business Awards is the world’s largest celebration of ex-military personnel who have transitioned into careers beyond the military – recognising the real value veterans add to businesses and their employers, who support the transition of servicepeople across Scotland so proudly.

The event saw thirteen winners awarded the respected award from over three hundred nominations – nominations from far and wide across Scotland, all vying to honour their employees for demonstrating immense value that they, within the Armed Forces community, add to their Scottish employers across all sectors.

Gary has secured and managed over £1Million of funding to co-develop projects and services to support 12,500 children from Armed Forces and veteran families and has founded the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, which has raised £350,000 to support veterans, through Help for Heroes.

Gary Seath said:

“It is a huge honour to have received this award, but I want to recognise five further exceptional finalists who have achieved incredible things, having made the transition from military to civilian life to realise their potential and thrive across many sectors.

“It meant so much to receive an award from the armed forces community, having worked for many years in the third sector supporting veterans as well as their children and young people, through my work with the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, Help for Heroes and Forces Children Scotland.”

Nominated for the award by Forces Children Scotland, Chief Executive Officer, Laura Falconer said:

“Gary’s work at Forces Children Scotland has been exemplary; from the minute he joined the charity, he has worked with incredible passion and dedication to help improve the lives of children and young people from armed forces and veteran families across Scotland.

“Gary’s role carries significant responsibility and delivers work to an exceptionally high standard of professionalism. The fact he does so to such a high standard alongside his reservist commitments is remarkable; I have never worked with such a dedicated team member.

“We’re delighted Gary has received such well-deserved recognition.”

Servicepeople spend years adapting to roles and gaining valuable transferrable skills which are hugely valuable to businesses across Scotland. They develop qualities which are hugely adaptable to commercial environments and in demand in the business world and add real value to any business worth its salt.

Communicating these valuable and in-demand skills to employers can be challenging but rest assured that when an employer hires a veteran and reservist, they are gaining experience that is unrivalled by their non-military counterparts.

Increasing the visibility of military role models is crucial to empowering and inspiring current and future service leavers, but to educate employers on the value of supporting the transition of servicepeople.

However, this award category approaches matters from a different perspective in the sense it recognises and celebrates the achievements of those who have developed civilian careers, whilst serving in the Reserve Forces across all three arms of the British Armed Forces – the Royal Navy, the British Army, and Royal Air Force.

Gary has served in F Troop, 212 (Highland) Battery, 105^th Regiment Royal Artillery (RA) for four years, following in the footsteps of his brother, Captain David Seath, who served in Afghanistan and the Middle East with distinction with 19 Regiment RA and 29 Commando RA, respectively.

“Being a reservist in 105^th Regiment RA has expanded my horizons in many ways. I have gained many memorable experiences which has served to develop new skills, build a unique sense of confidence, and forge many new connections.

“I consider it a huge honour to be part of the Army Reserve, which is something much bigger than myself and 105 RA is somewhere you are accepted, respected and encouraged to push beyond comfort zones in order to realise potential and thrive.”

Lieutenant Colonel Huw Gilbert, Commanding Officer of the 105 Regiment RA, added: “Gary Seath is thoroughly deserving of this award. Reservists’ military and civilian roles are often complimentary of one another. Gary’s contribution over such a wide spectrum i,s however, truly outstanding.”

Run, walk, Cycle, dog-jog and pram push – it all counts!

Join us at Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline in support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund on Sunday 23 April (10:30am).

If you can’t make it, complete a virtual 5K anywhere, anytime over the weekend.

Complete 5K at your own pace, anyway you like in support of a local cause which raises money in memory of Captain David Seath, who died running the London Marathon.

Since then, David’s fund has raised over £350.000.00 to support veterans and their families, through Help for Heroes.

From mental health and wellbeing, employability and education pathway support to sports, fellowship and much more; David’s legacy has made a huge difference to veterans and their families across Scotland.

Become a powerful force for good behind what has proved a truly incredible legacy.

Sign up via, Eventbrite

Following a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz returned to the Garvock House Hotel in Dunfermline, to raise over £1600 to support veteran families through, Help for Heroes.

Over one-hundred supporters attended the popular quiz event, to raise funds in memory of Dunfermline-born Captain David Seath, who tragically died running the 2016 London Marathon running in support of the charity, Help for Heroes.

Since then, the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund has raised £350,000.00 through annual fundraising events as well as generous donations, community and challenging fundraising which has taken place across the United Kingdom and overseas.

Funds support veterans and their families across Scotland through Help for Heroes – from sport, activity, and fellowship services to working directly with beneficiaries to co-produce online courses which promote recovery, to mental health and wellbeing support and much more.

Gary Seath, Founder of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund, said:

“We are sincerely grateful to those who attended our quiz event, which has raised a phenomenal amount of money in support of David’s legacy. We are very fortunate to have such a warm, close-knit relationship with so many of our supporters, which is reflected in their passion for our cause.

“It was great to re-engage with our supporters, face-to-face, and ensure they left feeling that their continued support is greatly appreciated – a true force for good behind what is a truly remarkable legacy which is supporting veterans and their families across Scotland, through Help for Heroes.”

The event provides an annual fun-based, accessible quiz for attendees which focuses on general knowledge, current events, picture and music rounds, supported further by musical entertainment from Rhys Jenkins, a sumptuous haggis supper and a prize draw raffle.

There were many strong team performances on the night, however, the team from MRM Global triumphed to earn the right to put their name on the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz shield as champions for 2022, who scored a very impressive 58/62 points.

Emma Brunet said:

“It was wonderful to have the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund Quiz back this year. As always, Gary and his family ensured everyone had a brilliant event of top-notch quizzing, food, prizes and the added bonus of exceptional music performance from Rhys Jenkins. What a fantastic way to carry on David’s legacy and I encourage everyone to look out for next year’s event.”

One team who attended included direct beneficiaries of David’s legacy and members of the Help for Heroes team delivering vital services to veterans and their families across Scotland. One beneficiary kindly left a comment on social media channels, who said:

“It was an absolutely amazing evening, thank you so much for everything you do. I am living proof that the support you give to Help for Heroes in David’s name goes a long way. Three years ago, I was diagnosed with Complex PTSD.

“Two years ago my world fell apart completely and if it wasn’t for the help I have received with regards to Hidden Wounds and the Recovery College, not to mention the continued support and friendship I have from Sport, Activity & Fellowship, I wouldn’t be here, let alone be in the place I am today.”

The event was generously sponsored by MRM Global, whose CEO, Craig Letton, was a university friend of Captain David Seath whilst studying together at Aberdeen University. We extend our sincere thanks to MRM Global for their continued support of David’s legacy.

Jodie Anderson was awarded the Captain David Seath Memorial Endeavour Salver at St Margaret’s RC Primary School’s Class of 2022 Awards Ceremony earlier this week.

The personal qualities of resilience, dedication and leadership were at the core of the Commando ethos which former pupil, Captain David Seath, demonstrated to the men and women under his command to set the standard for others to follow.

St Margarets RC Primary School have established this memorial salver award to recognise and celebrate the spirit of David’s commando ethos in young people, who show the aforementioned qualities to aspire toward positive futures.

Deputy Head Teacher, Donna Mulholland said:

“Throughout her years in St Margaret’s, we have seen Jodie grow in both confidence and resilience.  She is a kind, caring and friendly girl who always has a smile on her face.  Jodie approaches everything she does with positivity and determination to succeed.  Even when she finds things challenging, she never gives up. 

“She is enthusiastic about her learning and always shows commitment to everything she undertakes.  Jodie has been one of our Learning Champions this year as well as a Playground Pal.  Jodie is an excellent role model for younger pupils and always leads by example.  She gets involved in the wider life of the school and always thinks about others.”

The award was presented by Libby Seath, who said:

“This award recognises someone who has worked hard and has shown dedication and perseverance to strive towards doing their very best. What’s more, the award recognises kindness, compassion, dependability and leadership. I am delighted to have presented this award to Lawrence, which is richly deserved and we wish him the very best in the future.”

We offer our congratulations to Jodie and our sincere thanks to St Margaret’s RC Primary School for their continued support of David’s legacy.