Father’s Day spectaculars help with cancer battles

Cyclists and runners gather at Glamis to pedal and pound their way around for charity event

Hundreds of people came out for Father’s Day at Glamis Castle to play their part in beating prostate cancer.

Organised by Kirriemuir Rotary Club, the fun cycle ride and 10k run was judged a resounding success.

It was held to raise money for Prostate Scotland, which will be better off to the tune of more than £1,000 following yesterday’s gathering.

More than 600 people came along, including 250 riders of all ages who completed the two-mile route, while almost 100 runners took part in the 10k run.

Bill Milne, Kirriemuir Rotary Club president, said: “This was a fantastic event and as usual, we are so thankful to the Kirriemuir public turning out and being as generous as ever.

“On this Father’s Day, many fathers were out either cycling with their children or running and it was great to see so many with their picnics on the front lawns of the castle — a truly spectacular backdrop.

“Rotary agreed to support Prostate Scotland and how appropriate that this was on Father’s Day. We all know friends and family who have suffered this cancer – some survived and some not.

“What we do know is that the more we can help with funding, the quicker this disease may be eradicated or dealt with by better treatments.”

Adam Gaines, director of Prostate Scotland, added: “My colleague and I cycled the track and it was a wonderful experience, especially coming down through the arboretum with such spectacular trees.

“It was also pleasing to see so many families taking part.

“We are so appreciative of what the Rotary Club has done, especially as they also distributed well over 1,000 information leaflets about these problems that affect men.”

Tommy Baxter, Glamis Castle manager said: “The castle believes in supporting the local community and charities when it can.”

Mary Hopkins from the Inner Wheel Club of Kirriemuir said: “We all know someone who has been affected.

“The new developments, with laser surgery, are extremely exciting and we need to help the prostate charities get the equipment and the research required.”

Elsewhere, 10 members of Broughty Ferry Rotary and friends cycled along the coast and over the Tay Bridge to raise awareness and funds.

Six members of Arbroath Rotary also cycled 19 miles from their home town to Monifieth and back.

And two static bikes in the Co-op store in the Roods allowed Kirriemuir shoppers to cycle for a mile and make a donation.

Pictures: Mhairi Edwards and Paul Reid. Caitlin Mitchell, 18 from Menzieshill and Lois Winter, 17 from Fife coming up to the finish of the Race for Life in Camperdown Park.

Graeme Brown from Alyth out in front from the start as he goes on to win the fun run at Glamis Castle in aid of Prostate Scotland.

Runner-up Marcus Sheridan, left, with race winner Graeme Brown.