Fundraising work earns recognition

A Perth-based military man has received a coveted honour in recognition of his exceptional contribution and commitment to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Captain Brian“spats” Baxter received the Sir James Gildea Award for his“extraordinary” fundraising efforts over the years.

Cpt Baxter served in the Black Watch all over the world for more than three decades and is now regimental career management officer of 7th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland (7 SCOTS), based in the Fair City.

Cpt Baxter received the award – named after the founder of SSAFA – at the recent AGM of the Perth and Kinross branch of SSAFA by branch president and Falklands veteran Major General Adrian Freer, late of the Parachute Regiment.

Maj Gen Freer said: “Captain Baxter, you have been nominated for this award for your extraordinary fundraising service to SSAFA Perth and Kinross, over many years, and especially for the exceptional efforts you have made to take Army reservist teams from 7 SCOTS to run in the US Marine Corps marathons in Washington DC, since 2016, raising thousands of pounds in funds for this branch.”

Lieutenant Colonel Andy Middlemiss, branch chair SSAFA Perth and Kinross and late of the King’s Own Scottish Borderers, added:“we’re equally so fortunate and so proud to have Spats as a fundraiser for the branch. His efforts do so much good for the military community in the area, and help to provide the support our veterans and serving personnel – regular or reserve – and their families need.”

For more information visit ssafa.org.uk/ perth-kinross