Join in The 1918 Poppy Pledge

strapped to his back.

“I wanted to raise money for Poppyscotland, which I think is a fantastic charity, but I also wanted to raise awareness of the fact that it is the centenary year,” explained Rhidian, who now works in the financial sector after leaving the Army six years ago. “I wanted to do something that would capture the imagination – marching with weights is also a very military activity, and I thought I would do 100 miles to represent every year since the First World War. “I also wanted to do a series of events throughout the year – if I had one event, I thought it would be a ‘big bang’ then it would be over and done with. Whereas I’m doing my events from April right through to November 11, so I think that means I will continue to capture people’s imaginations throughout the year.”

Alongside Poppy Pledgers around the country, Rhidian has “enlisted” to raise £1918 during the course of the year, and it is hoped the schools, groups, clubs, organisations and individuals taking part will help donate £500,000 towards Poppyscotland’s vital work.

Money raised from The 1918 Poppy Pledge will help Poppyscotland provide lifechanging support to members of the Armed Forces community. The charity provides tailored funding and assistance also funds services in advice, employment, housing, mental health, mobility and respite.

Poppyscotland’s Head of Fundraising Gordon Michie said: “The Poppy Pledge will be a lasting tribute to those who fell in the First World War but importantly, it will also allow us to make a step change in the scale of support Poppyscotland is able to provide those who rely on our support today.”