Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Ben Nevis trek in Marc’s memory
Friends raise over £3000 for charity
Friends of a Coatbridge man who tragically died in Ibiza have raised a four-figure sum for charity in his memory.
A group of 20 pals and family members of Marc Russell, who passed away on the Spanish island seven years ago this month, trekked Ben Nevis and raised more than £3000 for the Cash for Kids charity in the process.
The 26- year- old, who was an IT student and fondly known as Rusty, was found dead in a hotel room in San Antonio while on holiday in 2010.
And in a tribute to Marc, his lifelong friend Alex Coyle organised the Highland challenge.
The 32-year-old told the Advertiser: “Marc was my oldest pal. I knew him from our first day at Kirkshaws Primary. We went right through Rosehall High together and then enjoyed going out to the dancing after leaving school. He was a great guy.
“We chose to support Cash for Kids because we all agreed it was a fantastic charity. It made most sense after Marc passed away in Ibiza.
“His mum had passed away when he was in P7 but he was lucky enough to have his auntie Sandra, who took part in the walk, and his granda Jimmy Robertson to look after him.”
Speaking about the Highland hike Alex went on: “We usually arrange a Rangers v Celtic memorial match, but this year we thought that we would do something different.
“There was about 20 of us, all of various fitness levels. I’ve been doing hill walking for a wee while now, but for a lot of the other people who took part on the day, it was their first time.
“When I first thought of doing it I only expected to raise about £500 but it grew from there.
“There was one wee girl aged about 11 and she and her dad raised £500 alone, which was amazing.
“We worked as a team because it was in Marc’s name. Nobody wants any credit for it.
“Most of the people there were members of my family but there were a few of Marc’s family too, including his aunt and his cousin Chloe.”
And despite stiff legs the following day, the group are keen to continue with their new form of fundraising.
Alex added: “I think the West Highland Way is on the cards for next year. Watch this space.”
If you’d like to make a donation, visit Alex’s fundraising page at uk. virginmoneygiving. com/ SomeoneSpecial/rusty1.