Newly weds Kiltwalk for kids’ charity
A pair of selfless newlyweds forgone a relaxing honeymoon in favour of a charity walking challenge to raise funds for a worthy cause.
Ryan and Caroline Kirkwood, from Patna, took part in the Kiltwalk at the weekend to raise money for Action for Children.
The couple, who are parents to three-year-old son Ryan, celebrated their wedding on April 8 at the Savoy Park Hotel in Ayr.
But when it came to planning a honeymoon, they decided to use it as an opportunity to coin it in for the charity who provide practical and emotional care and support for youngsters.
Ryan, 48, and Caroline, 29, booked three nights at The
Queen of the Loch hotel in Balloch for their honeymoon to coincide with the Kiltwalk, which saw the couple, with little Ryan in tow, take on the three-mile Wee Wander route.
They met 10 years ago while working in an Ayrshire care home that helped people with mental health issues.
Their dedication to helping others with mental health issues and love for children led them to fundraise for Action for Children, who are heavily invested in both areas.
Ryan, a care home activity coordinator and DJ who has fundraised for many charities over the years, said: “It was when I was on furlough that I first came across Action for Children.
“I saw all the amazing work they were doing to help children and families and it stood out to me.
“I wanted to do something to raise some money so I signed up for the virtual Kiltwalk last April and started fundraising for Action for Children.
“I did a live DJ set from my living room wearing my kilt and an Action for Children t-shirt.
“I streamed it on TikTok and took requests and did shout-outs while encouraging everyone to go and donate.
“When it came around this year I wanted to actually take part ins the walk.
“Caroline was happy to do it too so I signed up and started fundraising.
“She saw what I did last year.
“And she he knows I like to do stuff for charity so she was on board with it.”