Pupils join army vet Andrew for big launch
Teaming up to venture across the Forth Road Bridge
A Strathaven veteran joined primary school pupils on the Forth Road Bridge for a fundraiser to launch this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.
Corporal Andrew Mcintosh served for 14 years with the 22nd Cheshire Regiment and saw service in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and The Gulf – and joined Poppyscotland fundraisers from Uphall Primary School.
The 44-year-old and the West Lothian youngsters ventured across the Forth Road Bridge for the first charity event of the year.
Andrew was confined to a mobility scooter after being diagnosed with a very rare and serious vascular condition in 2009.
Poppyscotland provided him with an electric-powered vehicle to give him more independence – and he was happy to join the charity launch their annual appeal.
Andrew used his scooter to do his bit for the armed forces charity after he broke the record travelling from John O’groats to Land’s End, raising £3000.
He has now called backing for the cause.
He said: “After their help, I wanted to go the extra mile and that’s why I took on the challenge from John O’groats to Land’s End.
“I did it in 16 days and nine hours – breaking the record by eight days – and, after doing that, I’m sure people won’t mind me for more asking them to go the extra mile for Poppyscotland this year.
“You don’t have to travel 1000 miles like me; you can do anything you like that will help raise money for the charity.”
Gordon Michie, Poppyscotland’s head of fundraising, said: “Both Andrew and the pupils of Uphall Primary School are no strangers at going the extra mile.
“We know at the the poppy appeal heart of are our local communities, and the work this primary school has undertaken recently in respect of Remembrance epitomises what the appeal is all about.
“I am delighted they have had the opportunity to meet one of our heroes in Andy, who has not only served his country with great pride and distinction, but continues to support us daily by going that extra mile with his fundraising activities.”