Colleagues to honour Russell with Kiltwalk

Two marketing lecturers are set to lace up their walking boots in memory of a much-loved former colleague.

Friends Valerie Will and Jacqui Greener will take on the 24-mile Kiltwalk to honour Russell Campbell, who tragically took his own life earlier this year.

The three worked closely together at the University of West of Scotland in Paisley over many years and they hope to raise vital cash for Samaritans.

Dad-of-two Russell, 51, who penned the popular Causeysiders cartoon in the Paisley Daily Express for more than 20 years, died in January this year.

Valerie and Jacqui have already collected more than £600 in donations for Samaritans ahead of the walk in Edinburgh on September 15.

Valerie, a marketing lecturer, said:“We wanted to do something big as a celebration of Russell and his life.

“He was so creative through his music, books and, of course, his Causeysiders cartoon strip in the Paisley Daily Express.

Russell, originally from Taynuilt, in Argyll and Bute, introduced his sons Struan and Fraser to playing music, and travelled the world with his wife Anne.

They lived in Howwood, where they became a fixture at social events and gatherings.

Valerie says that before he died, Russell gave no outward indication he was not himself.

She said:“Russell was an amazingly talented individual who had everything to live for and absolutely no one knew that he felt the way he did.

“We are also pleased that his wife Anne, who he loved dearly, and his brother Gary are supporting us.

“We would encourage anyone — especially men — to speak out. Speak to a neighbour or a friend. Or Samaritans, who we are raising money for.

“In 2017, 680 people took their own lives in Scotland — 522 were men.

“We want to celebrate Russell’s life, but also raise awareness of this really troubling issue.”

Anyone who wishes to donate should visit https://bit.ly/2YVfjjS