Out of the classroom to hike for two charities

A Lanarkshire teacher has completed a 350-mile hike from Airdrie to John O’groats to raise funds for local charities St Andrew’s Hospice and St Francis’ Care Home.

David Cluckie has so far raised a combined £5300 after beginning his journey at the Airdrie hospice back in late June.

The hike took him 26 days to complete, at times walking with family and friends who supported him along the route.

Both charities have a close personal connection for David and his family.

St Francis’ Care Home in Govan have been looking after David’s mum, Mary, for four years now and have endured a challenging year managing the complexities of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 51-year-old, of Hamilton, is also fundraising for St Andrew’s Hospice which has played a big part in his life having compassionately cared for his wife Angela’s gran in 1999.

David told the Advertiser: “I’ve always been an active outdoor person thanks to my dad and I’ve always enjoy my times outdoors.

“I was keen to take on a big challenge and following a tough year, I thought now was the perfect time to make the most of the opportunity to take on this adventure.

“The past few weeks have been exceptionally challenging; I am very proud to have completed the hike and grateful to everyone who has donated and helped me raise money for two charities close to my heart; St Francis’ Care Home in Govan and St Andrew’s Hospice in Airdrie.”

Sr Lisette at St Francis said: “David’s mum joined the family of St Francis Care Home in 2017,

where she has been more than a delight to care for. Mary and her family have been a huge support to our care home with the endless help in fundraising for the home.

“In the time we have known

David he has suggested numerous ideas, supported us through race nights, and even given his time to ensure events run well with great dedication.

“We are in awe of David.

His latest adventure, a hike to John O’groats, was hopefully enjoyable for him and successful in fundraising for our resident’s funds.

“Everyone at St Francis is again indebted to his ongoing kindness, our thoughts, prayers, and very best wishes were with him every step of the way.”

To donate, and for more details, visit https://linktr.ee/davidhikes

Personal connection David presents his donation to St Andrew’s Hospice following his 26-day journey